Judy "Waldrop" Combs

Judy "Waldrop" Combs obituary, Fort Smith, AR

Judy "Waldrop" Combs

Judy Combs Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Lewis Funeral Chapel - Fort Smith on Mar. 16, 2026.
Judy "Waldrop" Combs, age 82, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away on March 13, 2026. She was born on February 18, 1944, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to James Waldrop and Ann "Blackwell" Waldrop. Judy attended Mill Creek, Pocola, Cavanaugh, and Ramsey schools, later graduating from Fort Smith High School in 1962.

Judy was an avid bowler and assistant softball coach, helping lead both her teams to several championships. She also enjoyed volunteering with the PTA at Cavanaugh Elementary School. Judy attended several churches throughout her life, including Haven Heights and For His Glory, where she celebrated her 80th birthday with her church family. Judy pays special tribute to her family, friends, coworkers, and caregivers.

She is survived by her children, Danielle C. Ballard and husband Greg, and Christy Combs Peaslee; and her grandson, Zachary Ballard. She is also survived by her siblings Jimmie Harris, adopted sister Debbie Humphrey, Ed Waldrop and wife Sheila, and sister Annette Werschky and husband Rick; her beloved nieces, Ana Leigh Bazar and her family, and Anna Grace Waldrop; as well as a host of extended family and friends.

Judy was preceded in death by her mother and best friend, Ann "Blackwell" Waldrop; her father, James E. Waldrop; her brother, Marty Waldrop; and a special nephew, Warren Glenn Harris Jr.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Rev. Debbie Humphrey. Visitation and reception will follow the service. A private interment will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Mercy Hospice of Fort Smith (6801 Rogers Ave., Fort Smith, AR 72903) or the Pink Bud Nursing Center Activity Fund (400 S. Coker St., Greenwood, AR 72936). Cremation is under the care of Lewis Funeral Chapel.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Judy (Waldrop) Combs, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Lewis Funeral Chapel - Fort Smith

4817 Kelley Highway P.O. Box 4517, Fort Smith, AR 72904

Make a Donation
in Judy Combs's name

How to support Judy's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Judy Combs's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Judy Combs's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?