David Thomas Combs, 88, passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. He was born January 9, 1936, to the late Dewey Franklin Combs and Pearl Elizabeth Stone Combs in Wilkes County, N.C.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Bill and Sam Combs; his sister, Betty Clodfelter; his first wife, Betty G. Long; and special sister-in-law, Joann Kochman.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Combs; daughter, Andrea (Mark) Alexander; grandson, David Vestal; granddaughters, Taylor (Clint) Cure and Erin (Mason) Horst; great-granddaughter, Carson Vestal; step-sons, David and Jamie (Julie) Whitaker; and step-grandsons, Hunter and Tanner Whitaker.

Mr. Combs was a teacher at Forbush High School until his retirement in 1998. He enjoyed gospel music, he played several instruments, and sang on the radio and at local area churches with his siblings from an early age. He enjoyed spending time on the lake and once his grandchildren came along the summers were filled with lots of joy and laughter at their Papaw’s.

A service for Mr. Combs will be held on Saturday, May 11, at 5 p.m. at Troutman Funeral Home, 345 N Main Street, Troutman, NC 28166). The family will receive friends before the service from 4 to 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Longtown Methodist Church Backpack Ministries, 1416 Longtown Road, Yadkinville, NC 27055.

Troutman Funeral Home is serving the family.