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Gary Holcombe Obituary
68 Entries
DAVID PHILLIPS
July 22, 2024
I knew Gary at Morehead as a friend and fellow musician. I will be visiting Bardstown this week and hope to find people there who remember him. He was a kind and generous man.
Debbie Greer
June 15, 2019
Donna - I was just thinking of Gary - and many years ago visiting NYC - seeing Gary in Big River - and visiting with you & Gary. It was my mother, my sister & myself - (Marie, Lee & Debbie) my mother had accompanied him so many times, he'd sung in my sister's & my wedding
Gary was beloved by so many folks. His passing was a painful shock.
What I cherished most on that trip was meeting you - and feeling that Gary was so happy personally, and had found the love of his life in you. It is hard to believe that he is gone - but I am thinking of you and hoping you are happy and well. God bless you!
Pres. Donald Trump & George Riddle
George Riddle
February 1, 2018
D.C. Anderson
January 2, 2013
I met Gary when he was a member of the Equity company and I an Equity Candidate at the Mule Barn Theater in Tarkio MO during the summer of 1977. His glorious voice and energetic presence were unforgettable. I had the great good fortune of running into him again in 2009 in Kansas City at a memorial concert that Geoff Packard and I gave at the Unicorn Theater in honor Molly Jessup. He was as warm as ever. I was so sorry to hear of his passing. D.C. Anderson
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Barbara & Jerry Young
February 3, 2012
Jerry and I were stunned to hear of Gary's passing. We met Gary and Donna at Unity Village in the 1990's. We were awed by their talent and warmed by their friendship. Gary visited us at our farm near Bennett Springs and we loved the visits. He was a loving, funny, talented man with a beautiful baritone voice. We will cherish the time we shared with him. Please accept our deepest sympathy. Gary was truly one of a kind.
December 28, 2011
I just learned of Gary's death in Equity News, so I send apologies for the lateness of this notice. I first met Gary in 1981, when I stage managed a production of That Championship Season at the now-defunct Pennsylvania Stage Company in Allentown, PA. The entire cast enjoyed a unique and strong bond, in no small part because of Gary's humanity and passion, and I learned then what a rock Gary was--a consummate professional with a terrific sense of humor and unflagging devotion to his castmates. A few years later, we reconnected in both the national tour and Broadway production of Big River, where Gary again demonstrated his soaring collaborative spirit. One memory that sticks out for me: I had to strip the wallpaper from my bedroom in my midtown apartment and sand, plaster, and repaint--a chore I did not look forward to. After I let this be known backstage, Gary not only immediately insisted on helping, he rallied a couple of other stalwart cast members to join in, and taskmaster that he was, ensured that we finished the job with painterly precision and on schedule...and laughing throughout. We hadn't been in touch in the last decades--I moved to California and he to KC, but I often thought about him fondly. I send sincere condolences to his family and friends and toast his memory.
Steven
December 28, 2011
I just learned of Gary's death in Equity News, so I send apologies for the lateness of this notice. I first met Gary in 1981, when I stage managed a production of That Championship Season at the now-defunct Pennsylvania Stage Company in Allentown, PA. The entire cast enjoyed a unique and strong bond, in no small part because of Gary's humanity and passion, and I learned then what a rock Gary was--a consummate professional with a terrific sense of humor and unflagging devotion to his castmates. A few years later, we reconnected in both the national tour and Broadway production of Big River, where Gary again demonstrated his soaring collaborative spirit. One memory that sticks out for me: I had to strip the wallpaper from my bedroom in my midtown apartment and sand, plaster, and repaint--a chore I did not look forward to. After I let this be known backstage, Gary not only immediately insisted on helping, he rallied a couple of other stalwart cast members to join in, and taskmaster that he was, ensured that we finished quickly and on schedule...and kept us laughing throughout. We hadn't been in touch in the last decades--I moved to California and he to KC--but I often thought about him fondly. I send sincere condolences to his family and friends and toast his memory.
Ernie Zulia
November 8, 2011
Gary and I worked together on a production of "All I Really Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten" at Ford's Theatre in Washington DC. One day in rehearsal, we were on stage and he looked up at Lincoln's box, put his arm around my shoulder and said: "We are the luckiest guys on the planet... we're doing what we love in the bright light of Abraham (explitive) Lincoln!!!! I think he had a tear in his eye when he said it. What a great heart and soul our pal had! Much love to everyone who loved him...especially Donna. I was looking forward to hanging out together when we both retired. Guess it'll have to wait til later.
David Phillips
November 8, 2011
Gary and I were friends and fraternity brothers at Morehead State University. Although that was many years ago, Gary's talent was obvious to all of us at the time. His voice was unique. It had the warmth and sensitivity of a tenor and the power and authority of a bass. All of this came out of a tall skinny body, more that of a basketball player. Actually we played on the same intramural basketball team one year. Even though we were crushed in each game, it was Gary who had the most fun and probably scored the most points.
Sadly, I had not kept up with Gary's career and was unaware of his Vietnam War injuries. Most people were probably not aware that he also battled with TB in 1966, another misfortune that could have ended his career.
It is sad to see such a fine person leave us too early. But he has left us all better people for having touched and influenced our lives with his warmth, talent and friendship. I experienced this 45 years ago and these qualities seem to have remained with Gary throughout his life.
Farewell, old friend.
November 7, 2011
I just learned of Gary's death. He and I went to school together at Morehead State University, where we were members of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. We just moved to Kansas City a year ago and had no idea he also lived here. Our days at Morehead were so memorable, and I will always remember his beautiful voice. God bless, and rest in peace Gary.
Melissa McGinnis
November 5, 2011
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Gary was not only my teacher at UMKC Theatre, but also a very special mentor. He saw a light in me and helped nuture my dream that I had once asked him if I was crazy to think I could make come true...you see, it had been such a long road to even get to that first semester of acting classes. Going back to college as a late 20' something single mom and getting a degree in such a competitive field with a dream of making it in Hollywood can be a little unnerving. But what I found....what Gary taught and believed....was more than a degree or acting skills....it was hope and faith, and a deep sense that dreams can and do come true. I wish I could have thanked you in person...
...Thank you so very much Gary. Dreams really do come true!!...I've made it. Thank you for caring and mentoring. You have touched my heart and my life. Thank you deeply.
Bettye
November 4, 2011
I have great memories of Mr. Holcombe as my high school chorus teacher/ director at Bardstown High School. We were so very blessed to have a man with his great talent at our school. He was GREAT!
October 31, 2011
I learned of Gary's death during a St.Louis Equity Liaison meeting. It pains my heart to hear of his loss. I met Gary at the Mule Barn Theatre in Tarkio MO in '77, I was an AEA apprentice in the chorus, Gary was signed as all four male leads for the season of South Pacific, Guys & Dolls, The King & I and Showboat. I was bumped up from chorus apprentice to the other lead in G&D and Gary was so welcoming and generous and respectful. A generous heart and a beautiful soul. It's Gary's warm, rich voice that I still remember from that season that is the benchmark for me as a singer.
I will toast a wee dram of B&B to his memory. My prayers and condolences to his family.
J.Russo
St. Louis
Bob Durbin
October 30, 2011
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my dear friend, Gary. We were classmates at Bardstown High School. What a great career he had. The world is a better place because of him. He will be deeply missed. May God's richest blessings go to his family.
Jane N. Scott
October 28, 2011
I have many wonderful memories of Gary while we were students at Bardstown High School. It saddens me to learn of his death, but I know that he enriched the lives of those around him. It is no surprise that he had a rich, productive life. My sincere sympathy to members of his family.
Kevin Lane Dearinger
October 22, 2011
Gary was a funny, dear, and talented man, a complete theatrical pro. I knew him so very long ago, but the sad news of his passing is shocking news indeed. My thoughts are with his family and all of those who loved him.
Kristen Yelton
October 21, 2011
I had the fortune of acting under Gary's direction at UMKC as an undergrad. Gary had the wonderful gift of seeing in every individual the potential for what he or she could possibly become, not just as an actor, but as a human being. Gary made me a better person, and I'll be forever grateful to him for that.
Lucy (O'Bryan) Greenwell
October 19, 2011
Gary -- an amazing talent and inspiration to so many. He will certainly be missed. Heartfelt sympathies to his family, friends, and the many individuals whose lives he so warmly touched. Rest in peace...
October 19, 2011
Donna, Gloria, Stephanie, and Family,
Unfortunately the heart-breaking news of Gary's death only made it to the North Carolina coast this morning. Having loved Gary from our roots in Bardstown, Kentucky (he taught Mike in his one year teaching at Bardshown High!), we followed his early career traveling to New York, Chicago, and other cities to marvel in his performances and to delight in his company as we played together in his off hours. Gary and Mike braved the woods of Nelson County to hunt, and we ate and drank much together when Gary performed his four summers of Stephen Foster. Emily, our first child ,came into our lives only to be sailed through the air to her dad by "Uncle Gar" each visit. Our second child, Zach, came early and prevented his dad from making the flight to attend Donna's and Gary's wedding, something we always regretted. Not long after that, we became North Carolinians, and of course, Gary and Donna made their wonderful life together in KC. Donna, we always knew you were the soulmate Gary needed and delight in the life you gave him. Careers and children and miles finally brought us to the point where we no longer had Gary's address or number, also something we regretted deeply. We did Google Gary a year or so ago only to find Donna and Gary listed with their agency, but ran into a wall to make direct contact. Oh, well, we would try again one day. . . we do so regret that most of all. Still, we are forever blessed by our friendship with this larger-than-life man we loved so very much . . . and who lives in our hearts for all our days . . .
Mike & Charlotte Moore [email protected]
Sandra Hammack - Dow
October 18, 2011
Donna, So sorry to hear of Gary's passing. I remember meeting him when you took me backstage in MPLS durring the Annie tour. Your wedding embodied your romance, you two were truly soul mates. My heart breaks for you. May God bless you and keep you safe until you are re-united.
Lynn & Amy Davis
October 17, 2011
My wife and I met Gary only a short time ago, we feel very blessed to have known him. Gary and I would talk at lenght on the phone, and I so enjoyed our trip to the airport. We talked about getting his bow out and some fishing in the spring. He will be greatly missed and thought of often. Rest in peace my brother.
Rev. Shannah McAleer
October 17, 2011
Gary was my next door neighbor and"protector" when I moved back to KC. I loved going to bike shops with him, playing with our dogs, and just talking on the steps. I love you Gary! Donna and Gary will always be in my heart.
Gary & Sharilyn Robben
October 16, 2011
We first met you at your wedding. We then watched you and Donna over the years in various Kansas City productions. Although our paths never crossed again to visit, we feel like we know you well. We were blessed, however to know your Thomason family.
Lynne Wintersteller
October 15, 2011
During the Annie Bus & Truck Tour, I remember eventually getting off the bus and driving my car to each city while Gary rode his motorcycle. Just to be on the safe side, we always had a "planned stop" - I have photos of Gary proudly smiling with helmut in hand on his bike! I left that tour as Grace Farrell to take over the Grace Farrell understudy spot on Broadway - while that understudy left Broadway to do the role on tour. That lady was Donna and the rest is romantic history! God Bless you Gary - check in with us every now and then.
Betty Seeger
October 15, 2011
Gary will be missed , by the ones he went to school with and so appreeiated his gifts and everytime he would come home , he would go to our small little church we wll grew up in and shared his talent with us , which we all appreciated . I enjoyed growing up with him and enjoyed talking with him , his last visit home . He will be missed . Love and prayers to his family .
ron watts
October 15, 2011
Went to high school and later worked with Gary in the Stephen Foster Story, remember him as a kind and considerate young man. I know he will be missed.
Scott Ray
October 14, 2011
Gary Holcombe was one of our most memorable Stephen Fosters in THE STEPHEN FOSTER STORY outdoor drama in Bardstown, KY, where he grew up and first performed as a professional. Many people remember his excellent voice, acting, and performing ability, which served him well in his long and successful career. Condolences to his wife and family.
Sara Swearingen
October 14, 2011
I was so sorry that Gary is no longer with us. Although I did not know him personally, I loved seeing him on stage. He was my favorite local actor and I tried to see everything he was in. One of my favorites was "The Boys Next Door". I worked at Starlight for a few years so I was familiar with him. Donna, I am so sorry for your loss. You were lucky to have him in your life.
Stanley Bojarski
October 14, 2011
I had the great honor to work with Gary for an extended period of time doing the 4th National tour of "Annie". Gary was an amazing performer and a friend I had the honor of being one of Gary's groomsmen at his wedding to Donna. A true gentleman and a loyal friend that will be missed by so many of us. Gary, you now walk with the Lord
David Hedrick
October 14, 2011
I knew Gary during the four years he played the role of Stephen Foster, an outdoor musical drama that plays during the summers in Bardstown, KY on the Old Kentucky Home State Park grounds. He was the best Stephen with whom I have worked...I have been with the drama for 39 seasons and am the musical director. What a talent! He gave 110% every night and expected and inspired each of us to do likewise. He was a great actor and a great singer. He will be missed and he will be remembered. Rest in Peace, Gary.
Dr. David Hedrick, Assistant Professor of Voice, Campbellsville University and Musical Director-The Stephen Foster Story.
Kathryn Hoffman
October 14, 2011
Thanks to seeing Gary in a Christmas Carol I chose to pursue theatre ,The presence he commanded without ever needing to say a word was amazing. He was still to this day my favorite actor and will always remain that. The curtain call for him was way to soon and you will be deeply missed.
Deb Zimmer
October 14, 2011
Anyone who knew Gary was blessed. He was truly gifted in his craft,family, friends and his wife. Donna, I am so very sorry for the loss of your soulmate, he was a treasure that will be missed by so many. He never failed to make me laugh when he would call me and say "Holcombe here". My fondest memory in the theatre was Gary playing "Pap" in Big River, it was the best and seeing you together in a show sent tingles through everyone. Once again I am so very sorry for you and the theatre family that loved him.
Betsy Maxwell
October 13, 2011
We traveled with Gary and Donna in the 4th National tour of "Annie". He was such a talented performer with a great sense of humor and love of life. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Gary & Donna's families and friends.
Hal & Betsy Maxwell
Becky Barta
October 13, 2011
So many people all across the country have learned, laughed and become better people for knowing and working with Gary. I feel blessed for being one of them. His beautiful voice and extrodinary wisdom he brought to all of us both on and off stage will not be forgotten. I'd like to think his beloved Winnie has welcomed him with open paws! Donna, you are his angel on earth and are in my thoughts and prayers.
Michael Rice
October 13, 2011
I had the pleasure of conducting Gary in ANNIE at the Muny....what a treat it was to work with him....his beautiful booming voice and his wonderful Southern sense of humor.....What a pro!
Matthew Schmidli
October 13, 2011
Gary truly touched my life and I loved him like a family member. I'll never forget the kind words he shared with me and the joy we experienced together in the theatre. Gary was my mentor, teacher, coach and director. He, more than anyone is responsible for my acceptance into the Purdue MFA Acting Program. I wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for Gary.
Lesly Lewandowski
October 13, 2011
Gary and I sang together at Unity Village in the late 80's and early 90's...he was always such an uplifting, positive man and I liked him very much. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. Many blessings to Donna and all of Gary's family.
Gina Bikales
October 13, 2011
Donna, I am so sad to hear about Gary's death. Your loss must feel so huge. I hope all your very warmest memories of Gary will help ease the next few months and that you will take comfort in knowing that you did find the love of your life in him. All my best wishes to you,
Gina Bikales
Leslie Feagan
October 13, 2011
Got to know sweet Gary when we we did ANNIE and SOUTH PACIFIC. Looking forward to seeing him perform with the angels.
Ronnie Tilman
October 12, 2011
Gary, I only knew you for about a year and a half, but you left an impression that will last a lifetime. I really enjoyed our small talks and every day I looked forward to your legendary salute as you drove by. Today Gary, I salute you, sir! WC Security
Maria Meyers
October 12, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Donna. You have always been one of my favorite couples. You are in my heart. If there is anything that you need, please let me know. I am in the neighborhood. Much Love, my friend. ~Maria
October 12, 2011
Gary and I shared many memories, growing up together as childhood friends in Bardstown, Ky, and later,when we both were bitten by the acting bug, in the cast of "The Stephen Foster Story". He was a dear friend, a consummate actor with a beautiful voice, and a fine man. We've lost a wonderful talent. Godspeed, Gary, and sincere condolences to Donna and his family.
Lee Grigsby Evans, Bardstown,Kentucky
Tom
October 12, 2011
I had the honor and priviledge of getting to know Gary over the past few years. He was one of a kind, a very special person with a charm and charisma that was unequaled - he will be dearly missed. My condolences go out to his family, friends and loved ones.
DC Anderson
October 12, 2011
Gary was the King in The King and I, Emile DeBecque in South Pacific at the Mule Barn Theater in the late '70's. Gorgeous voice, versatile..I had the good fortune to see one of his last performances in Kansas City Rep's
'Winesburg, Ohio' and talk with him afterwards. A gentleman, a fine actor and a finer human being
Shellie Gaskill-Holsted
October 12, 2011
Gary....you were one of my favorites. I will never forget you, and all of the joy that you brought to my life. Lend Me A Tenor was one of my favorites, and the Christmas Carol was amazing. I will always treasure your friendship....till we meet again my friend...
Karen Vorst
October 12, 2011
Gary was such a great actor and just a wonderful person. I will miss him and his incredible singing voice. My heart goes out to his family.
George Riddle
October 12, 2011
My buddy, Gary Holcombe, has taken his final curtain call. I loved him like a brother. We shared our friendship for over 30 years and I will never forget him. Gary, I'll see you on the other side. May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.
Beth Ocheskey
October 12, 2011
Eddie and I both had the prividge of working with Gary. We will deeply miss him and his ability to light up a stage. We dim our lights for you Gary.
Thom Warren
October 12, 2011
I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear that Gary has passed away. I was honored to work with both he and his wife Donna in a few shows at Starlight. The talent, warmth, and sense of humor will not be forgotten. To his family and Donna, please accept my deepest sympathy
Mary Corsaro
October 12, 2011
I was fortunate enough to work with Gary and his wife in The Stephen Foster Story in Bardstown, KY back in the 70's. Although I have not seen them in many years, I was very saddened by Gary's passing and send my thoughts and prayers to the family. May he rest in peace.
Mark Edelman and karin lichterman
October 12, 2011
What sad, sad news to learn today. We held Gary in high regard, and always were glad to see him on stage or off. What a loss to his family, friends, the acting community, and audiences. He will be missed.
Jim & Sherry Barnard
October 12, 2011
We remember fondly the years we spent with Gary in The Stephen Foster Story in Bardstown, KY. in the early to mid-1970's. So many good times. Our thoughts and prayers are with Gary's family.
mollie 'hall' boulware
October 11, 2011
gary was one of my 'daddys' 30 years ago, and he was just about the nicest man in the world! i will always remember how kind and patient he was with me, and how i always felt respected by him...even as a 10 year old kid. thank you for such wonderful memories.
blessings...
Donna Hampton (Drake)
October 11, 2011
When I was growing up in Bardstown, KY, I believe that every girl had a crush on Gary. He was the lead in The Stephen Foster Story, our outdoor musical, and everyone always considered him to be the best Stephen we've ever had. Thank you, Gary, for lending your talents to us all. You were a gift.
Laurel Ruhlen
October 11, 2011
People like Mr. Holcombe just shouldn't be allowed to die. Ever. Period.
I remember standing in the wings before yet another "Christmas Carol" performance, and seeing him just sitting on the edge of the set, just behind the scrim that comes up at the start of the show. He appeared to be meditating, or somehow tuning into the theater, or... something. But even just sitting there, without trying to hold anyone's attention, totally focussed on whatever was going on inside himself, he commanded attention. Respect, too. And he inspired confidence. As a young actor, I looked up to him. He was exactly the kind of person, both as a performer and as an immensely decent human being, that I wanted to grow up to be.
Mr. Holcombe, sir, it is a terrible shame that you've gone so soon. Good people like you should be allowed multiple encores.
Stephanie Holcombe-Whitehouse
October 11, 2011
Best big brother a girl could ask for! Love you Gary and miss you so much!
Stephanie Kelman
October 11, 2011
Gary Holcombe was a class act. He was kind and generous of spirit. I am honored that I was allowed to know him briefly.
David Fehr
October 11, 2011
Gary was one of the good ones. He was an amazing person and a great teacher. His presence will be missed.
Gary, thanks for everything.
Mike Ott
October 11, 2011
Gary's love for the theatre was infectious. He taught me so much and I will miss him dearly. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his family, friends, and the entire theatre community.
Margaret Shelby
October 11, 2011
Shock and sadness fill this room. I wish, I wish...
Pat Paton
October 11, 2011
Gary was one of the nicest and best actors I ever worked with at several theatres -- he will be missed
Sharon Pardieu
October 11, 2011
I met Gary when I was only 10 years old. It has been many years since I last saw him but I will always remember what a dashing young man he was when he played Stephen Foster. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family and friends.
Sarah Zsohar
October 11, 2011
He was gifted at acting. He was gifted at singing. He was most gifted at being a mentor that touched our lives. With sympathy to those he held most dear.
Rebekah Ebeling
October 11, 2011
Gary is a part of some of my fondest memories of first meeting my husband. I was honored to call him a friend. Deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and those countless many he has touched.
Cathy Hirner
October 11, 2011
Deeply sorry for the loss of Gary Holcombe. He was a joy to work with and a pleasure to watch perform.
Danielle Spillman
October 11, 2011
What an incredible gift Gary had. What a great great loss for the Kansas City community.
Ann Mendez
October 11, 2011
We are very saddended and send our regards to Gary's family,
Ariel and Ann Mendez
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