Stephen Combs

Our dad, Stephen Combs, left this world on August 18, 2025, in Columbia, Missouri, at the age of 60. Though he passed away far from home, his heart always belonged to Pond Creek, Oklahoma, where he was raised, lived, and built a life full of love, laughter, and hard work.

Dad was born on November 30, 1964, in Orange, California, to Jack and Mary, who were called home before him. He grew up with his three sisters — Stephanie (deceased), Lisa, and Jill — and later built a family of his own.

On April 5, 1991, Dad married our mom, Leah, who we lost far too soon in the year 2000. Together, they had us — Samantha in 1990 and John in 1992. Later, on December 12, 2012, he married Joanna. With Joanna came her daughter, Tarilyn, who was already an adult with her own children, Hunter and Haleigh. Even so, Dad stepped naturally into the role of a father figure for Terry — supporting, guiding, and loving her and her family as if they had always been his own.

Dad was a proud Papa, and his grandchildren were the light of his life. He shared countless special moments with Amelia, and though he did not get to meet Sade until he was already on hospice, the joy and relief on his face in that moment was truly special. He also cherished his time with Hunter and Haleigh, Wyatt, Wrynn, and many more who adored him.

By trade, Dad was a carpenter, but anyone who knew him would tell you there was nothing he couldn’t fix. He was the kind of man you could call for help with just about anything, and he’d show up with his quiet smile and a solution. In his own way, he gave back to his community every time he picked up his tools.

When he wasn’t working, Dad loved being outdoors — camping, fishing, spending time at the lake (usually getting sunburned), and riding his Harley Davidson. More than anything, though, he loved time with his grandchildren.

To us, Dad will always be remembered as kind, loving, strong, funny, soft-spoken, and blessed with an infectious smile. His simple words of advice — “Be kind, be honest, be happy” — will stay with us forever.

Services to celebrate his life will be held at the Baptist Church in Pond Creek, Oklahoma, on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 10 a.m.

As Dad always said, he lived life the way he wanted, and he accepted it for all that it was. We couldn’t have asked for a better husband, father, grandfather, best friend, uncle, or brother. He’ll be missed more than words can say, but his love will live on in all of us.

With love,

Samantha & John