Shirley Jo Martin Combs
Nov. 3, 1931 - Jan. 6, 2021
WARREN, IN -
Shirley Jo Martin Combs, affectionately known as ‘Nana', took flight on her final journey January 6, 2021.
Her daughters were faithfully by her side.
Shirley was born on Nov. 3, 1931, to Joseph and Eva Martin (McCormick), of Lucerne, Indiana. She had four siblings: James Martin, John Martin, Kay Leonard and her eldest sister and best surviving friend, Zelpha Frushour, close to whom she chose to retire in Warren, Indiana.
She married her high school sweetheart, Theodore (Ted “Papa” Combs) on New Year's Eve 1949. They have two daughters who became their greatest loves and legacies, Cynthia Lynn (husband Thomas) Del Toro and Carla Kay (husband Roland) Colwell. She has five grandchildren who brought her so much pride and joy: Kymberly L. Combs (wife Melissa), Steven M. Chapla, Joshua C. Colwell, Cari K. (husband Kerry) Keeps, and Jessyca Jo Colwell, with whom Nana is reuniting in heaven. Nana also witnessed seven great-grandchildren bless her family.
Shirley enjoyed a long and diverse career in the home building and interior decorating industry. She worked with the home builders association in South Bend, IN for many years and was an Executive Officer for NHBA in Washington, DC as well as West Palm Beach, FL.
When Shirley retired from Garden Homes after many years, she decided it was her time to relax and enjoy life with family and took up painting as if she had mastered it all along.
She had a passion for adventure, travel and the outdoors, including fishing and mushroom hunting.
Shirley was a longtime member of Sunnyside Presbyterian Church in South Bend.
Shirley made numerous lifelong connections and deep friendships; her greatest love was always her family.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Parkview Huntington Hospital and Hospice. In lieu of gifts and flowers, we ask for donations to Huntington Hospice.
A private family service will be conducted in the springtime, when her ashes will be placed next to the love of her life, Ted.
Arrangements are being handled by Glancy-H. Brown & Son Funeral Home in Warren, Indiana.
Published in South Bend Tribune on Jan. 13, 2021.