Gerald Wayne Combs

Gerald Wayne Combs, 83, passed away on June 27, 2025, at his home in Republic, Missouri. A proud veteran and loving husband, father, and grandfather, Gerald lived a life marked by service and quiet strength.
Born on May 18, 1942, in Pilot Grove, Missouri, Gerald was the son of Arley Arthur Combs and Lillie Mildred Hatfield, and was the middle of three sons. At just 17 years old, he enlisted in the United States Army in 1959. Over the next two decades, Gerald served his country with honor and distinction.
During his military career, Gerald was stationed at several Army bases across the United States. He served bravely in Vietnam, a testament to his courage and dedication. Later, he was posted in Hanau, Germany as a member of the 516th Engineer Company. After twenty years of honorable service, he retired in 1979 with the rank of Sergeant First Class.
Following his military retirement, Gerald continued to serve others through his work as an aide at the Missouri Chest Hospital and the Missouri Veterans Home in Mt. Vernon. For twenty years, he provided care and support to fellow veterans with compassion and respect before retiring from civilian service.
Throughout the years, Gerald enjoyed fishing and woodworking, crafting pieces with patience and precision. In quieter moments, he could often be found watching westerns, content with the familiar stories of grit and honor, with the background noise of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren filling the house with the sounds of joy while they played.
He shared 34 years with his wife Colleen Combs. Together they built a blended family filled with love and laughter. Gerald is survived by his daughters Donna Kay Combs Wilson and Lora LeAnn Combs; his stepsons Chris Hagen and Alex Hagen; his stepdaughter, Jeri Hagen; nine grandchildren-Brooke, Indigo, Madison, Isabella, William, James, Angel, Patrick, and Camren-and nine great-grandchildren-Avyn, Rylee, Hailey, Milo, Nico, Connor, Nora, Gus, and Evie; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Billie Ray Combs and Paul Eugene Combs; and leaves behind many who will remember him for his quiet presence and steadfast heart.
May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as a lasting tribute to a life well lived in service to others.
A visitation will be held on July 9, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Walnut Lawn Funeral Home, 2001 West Walnut Lawn Street, Springfield, Missouri, immediately followed by a funeral service. A graveside service will be held on July 9, 2025, at 01:00 PM at Missouri Veterans Cemetery 5201 S. Southwood Rd., Springfield, Missouri.
Care has been entrusted to Walnut Lawn Funeral Home, Ltd, Springfield, Missouri.