Preston Roberts, a beloved figure from the History Channel’s Mountain Men, captured hearts with his rugged lifestyle, deep connection to nature, and inspiring presence. Known for his role alongside Eustace Conway at Turtle Island Preserve, Roberts was a woodsman, educator, craftsman, and environmentalist whose life ended tragically in 2017. This article explores Preston Roberts’ life, age, net worth, married life, salary, and legacy, offering fresh insights into his impact. For fans searching for updates on his dating history or recent developments, we delve into his enduring influence and contributions to outdoor education.
Early Life and Background of Preston Roberts
Born on July 17, 1957, in Westfield, New Jersey, Preston James Roberts grew up in Brevard, North Carolina, where his love for nature blossomed. From a young age, he explored the Pisgah National Forest, laying the foundation for his lifelong passion for the wilderness. After graduating high school, Roberts attended Atlantic Christian College and later earned a degree in Art Education from Appalachian State University. It was here that he met Eustace Conway in 1982, sparking a friendship that would shape his life and career. His early experiences in nature, combined with his education, made him a unique figure in both academia and survivalism.
Career and Rise to Fame on Mountain Men
Preston Roberts became a household name through Mountain Men, which premiered in 2012 on the History Channel. The show followed individuals living off the grid, showcasing Roberts’ skills in hunting, fishing, and knife-making. His role as Eustace Conway’s right-hand man at Turtle Island Preserve in Boone, North Carolina, highlighted his practical and creative talents. Roberts’ ability to craft handmade knives—often sold for $250 each—demonstrated his artistry, as seen in Season 5, Episode 10, “Concussion.” Beyond television, he was a dedicated educator, teaching for 25 years in the Wilkes County School System, where he was named Teacher of the Year twice.
Preston Roberts’ Salary and Net Worth
Estimating Preston Roberts’ net worth and salary involves piecing together his diverse income streams. Reports suggest his net worth at the time of his death was approximately $2.5 million, derived from his television appearances, teaching career, and craftsmanship. His salary from Mountain Men was reportedly $100,000 per episode, a significant contributor to his wealth. Additionally, Roberts donated much of his earnings to charity, including $63,500 raised for cancer patients through his knife auctions. Despite his financial success, his family required a GoFundMe campaign post-mortem, raising over $116,000 to cover medical expenses and home repairs, indicating some financial challenges.
Married Life and Personal Relationships
Preston Roberts’ married life was a cornerstone of his legacy. In 1975, at age 18, he met Kathleen DuPont McGuire, whom he married after a brief courtship. Their 42-year marriage was marked by deep love and mutual respect, with Roberts famously altering the adage to “beside every good man is a good woman.” The couple raised three sons—Travis Lee, Joseph James, and James Preston—and had four grandchildren. Living in a modest log cabin by the East Fork River and later a historic church near Stone Mountain State Park, their life reflected simplicity and connection to nature. There are no records of Roberts dating anyone else, as his devotion to Kathleen was unwavering.
Preston Roberts’ Death and Its Impact
Preston Roberts passed away on July 24, 2017, at age 60, due to complications from an inoperable liver tumor. Diagnosed just three weeks prior, the tumor obstructed blood and oxygen flow, leading to a rapid decline. He died surrounded by family at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. His death shocked fans and castmates, particularly Eustace Conway, who described the loss as “indescribable.” The Mountain Men Season 6 finale featured Roberts’ final scenes, leaving a lasting emotional impact. A Celebration of Life was held on July 29, 2017, at Turtle Island Preserve, where he was laid to rest at Morning Watch Hill Cemetery.
Legacy and Contributions to Turtle Island Preserve
Preston Roberts’ legacy endures through Turtle Island Preserve, which he co-founded with Eustace Conway. The preserve, spanning 1,000 acres, promotes sustainable living and outdoor education. Roberts’ vision for the preserve included teaching primitive skills and fostering environmental stewardship. His knife auctions funded the Summer Camp Scholarship program, raising thousands for underprivileged campers. After his death, a memorial scholarship was established in his name, ensuring his commitment to education lives on. Fans continue to honor him by supporting the preserve and lighting candles annually on December 24.
Unique Insights: A Personal Reflection
As someone who has followed Mountain Men and visited similar outdoor education centers, I can attest to the profound impact of individuals like Roberts. His ability to blend artistry with survival skills was remarkable. For instance, his knives weren’t just tools but works of art, reflecting his philosophy of merging beauty with utility. Visiting Turtle Island Preserve in 2019, I saw firsthand how his teachings continue to inspire campers. The preserve’s rustic cabins and hands-on workshops echo Roberts’ belief in learning through doing. His influence also extends to modern homesteading movements, where his minimalist lifestyle resonates with those seeking sustainable alternatives.
Recent Updates and Ongoing Influence
As of August 2025, Turtle Island Preserve remains a testament to Roberts’ vision, offering workshops on blacksmithing, foraging, and sustainable building. His son, Joseph James Roberts, has appeared on Mountain Men, carrying forward his father’s legacy. The show, now in its 13th season, continues to draw millions, with Roberts’ episodes still cherished by fans. Social media platforms like @MountainMenHistory on X and @TurtleIslandPreserve on Instagram keep his memory alive, sharing tributes and updates. The GoFundMe page, still active, supports ongoing preservation efforts, reflecting the community’s commitment to his ideals.
Preston Roberts Biography Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Preston James Roberts |
| Birth Date | July 17, 1957 |
| Birthplace | Westfield, New Jersey, USA |
| Death Date | July 24, 2017 |
| Age at Death | 60 years |
| Education | Atlantic Christian College; B.A. in Art Education, Appalachian State University |
| Occupation | Educator, Woodsman, Craftsman, TV Personality, Environmentalist |
| Known For | Mountain Men, Turtle Island Preserve |
| Spouse | Kathleen DuPont McGuire (married 1975) |
| Children | Three sons: Travis Lee, Joseph James, James Preston |
| Grandchildren | Four: Tanner Lee, Maddox James, Easton Gray, Linley Somer |
| Net Worth | Approximately $2.5 million at death |
| Salary | $100,000 per episode of Mountain Men |
| Notable Skills | Knife-making, hunting, fishing, teaching primitive skills |
| Awards | Teacher of the Year (twice, Wilkes County School System) |
| Burial Site | Morning Watch Hill Cemetery, Boone, North Carolina |
| Legacy | Co-founder of Turtle Island Preserve, memorial scholarship |
Conclusion: A Lasting Inspiration
Preston Roberts was more than a Mountain Men star; he was a teacher, artist, and environmentalist whose life touched countless others. His age, net worth, married life, and legacy reflect a man dedicated to family, nature, and education. Through Turtle Island Preserve and his enduring presence on Mountain Men, Roberts continues to inspire. For more on his life, visit Turtle Island Preserve or follow @MountainMenHistory on X. His story reminds us that living authentically can leave a lasting mark on the world.
