WILMINGTON — Preston Eugene “Gene” Ladd, age 83, of Wilmington, NC, passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Gene was born on February 13, 1942, in Bristol, VA and lived in Bristol, TN, Marion, VA and Charlotte, NC before settling in Wilmington, NC in 1990.
Gene retired at the age of 58, having worked for Kraft Foods for more than 35 years. He was a faithful member of Pine Valley Methodist Church and their Agape Sunday School Class. His wife of 60 years, Sandra, passed away on August 19, 2024. He is survived by his three children and their families. His son Brian Ladd and wife Monica of Raleigh, NC and children Jake and Kate. Daughters Tracy Pryor and husband Jim of Fort Mill, SC and son Connor; Sherri Gray and husband John of Wilmington, NC and children Logan and Torie.
Gene was an avid golfer and played countless rounds over the course (no pun intended) of his life. After retiring, he was a member of Pine Valley Golf Club and played multiple times a week. He had an extensive circle of friends with whom he enjoyed spending time. They attended church events together, and would have frequent dinners, golf, and travel. Together they vacationed to Hawaii, national parks in the western US and Alaska.
He loved his family and enjoyed having everyone together at holidays especially at Christmas. He adored his five grandchildren and one of his biggest joys was watching them grow up from babies into young adults. His passion was visiting them and following them over the years in every activity in which they were involved be it school, sports, or church.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Alzheimer’s research fund of your choice such as the Alzheimer’s Association (donorservices.alz.org), the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund (curealz.org), or the BrightFocus Foundation (donate.brightfocus.org).
His family would like to express their gratitude to everyone who helped provide care for their dad during his battle with Alzheimer’s disease. They would also like to extend their appreciation to the staff of Lower Caper Fear Life Center who provided comfort during his final days. Gene would also want to tell his friends at Pine Valley Methodist Church that he loved them and appreciated their friendship and all of their support and prayers.
