Bobby Joe Combs, born August 10, 1948
Bobby Joe Combs, born August 10, 1948, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, passed away on August 12, 2026. Bobby spent most of his life in Harrison, Arkansas, where he built a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, and a deep love for the land he farmed.
From a young age, Bobby demonstrated the discipline, leadership, and character that would shape his life. He earned the rank of Eagle Scout, an accomplishment that reflected his commitment to service, integrity, and community—values he carried throughout his life.
In April of 1968, Bobby was drafted into the United States Army. He completed his training at Fort Lewis in Washington, where he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Marksmanship Qualification with the M-14 rifle, and the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal. Bobby rose to the rank of Sergeant in less than two years, a reflection of his discipline, leadership, and commitment to service. He was honored with the opportunity to attend West Point, but at the end of his service, he chose to return home.
While on leave in 1969, Bobby met the love of his life, Sue, just before being transferred to Alaska for the remainder of his military duty. Bobby and Sue married on June 19, 1970, and soon settled in Harrison, where they remained. Together, they built a successful farm in Boone County and raised their two boys, creating a home filled with purpose, grit, and enduring love.
Bobby is survived by his wife, Sue Combs; his sons Jeff (Jolene) Combs of Spokane, Missouri, and Blake (Rachel) Combs of Harrison, Arkansas; and his grandchildren Sierra Combs of Bethalto, Illinois; August Combs of Harrison, Arkansas; Madison (Brock) Humphrey of Omaha, Arkansas; Jacob (Megan) Hunt of San Diego, California; Wyatt (Alicia) Buster of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; Gabe Mernesess of Springfield, Missouri; and Sierra Mernesess of Kansas City, Missouri. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Cade, Theo, Hawk, and Brady, who brought him immense joy.
He also leaves behind his sisters Peggy Vandiveer of Memphis, Tennessee; Patty (Jack) Combs of Little Rock, Arkansas; and Sandy (Larry) Bonner of Walnut Ridge, Arkansas; his sister-in-law Kay (Gary) Milsap of St. Joe, Arkansas; brothers-in-law Jerry Grinder of St. Joe, Arkansas, and Rick (Tracey) Grinder of Clinton, Arkansas; nephews Gary Wayne Milsap, Josh Grinder, Railey Grinder, Scott Sims, Eric Sims, Shane Hancock; and nieces Amber (Jason) Chaney, Lisa
(LP) Baker, Lori (Rick) Vandiveer, Peggy (Anthony) Alls, Laura (Blake) Jamison, Jayla (Heath) Jones and Shauna Bellinger.
Bobby is preceded in death by his parents, Wesley and Glenda Combs of Black Rock, Arkansas; his sister Ann Reeves of Fayetteville, Arkansas; and his niece Ashley Combs of Florida.
Bobby’s life was enriched by a host of lifelong friends—from childhood companions to those he met through his many hunting adventures. His steady presence, his stories, and his unwavering loyalty will be remembered by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
