David Wesley Combs, 87, of Taylorville, passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at the Villas East in Sherman. He was born on April 1, 1937, in Hillsboro, the son of Shaw and Olive (Welker) Combs. He married Sally Thomas Williams on April 20, 1962, in Hillsboro, and she preceded him in death on October 5, 2013. Dave grew up on the family farm in Coffeen and he was always proud of his family’s farming heritage. He graduated from Hillsboro High School and went on to graduate from the Graduate School of Banking in Madison, Wisconsin. Dave proudly served our country in the U.S. Army from 1956-1959, serving 2+ years in Korea as a private SP4. For many years he continued to serve in the VFW in many roles including calling the commands for the honor guard for 40 years. He was a member of the Taylorville First United Methodist Church, lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Sons of Confederate Veterans, and the American Quarter Horse Association. In keeping with his farming background, his love of watching westerns, listening to country music and riding through the farmlands, he was also the proud owner of horses throughout the years, including his current horse, Ranger.
Dave began his career as a bank teller, working his way up to President and CEO of the First National Bank in Taylorville, retiring after a career of 54 years of which 25 years as President. Dave also served as director on the boards of First Bancorp and West Main Reality Group for 43 years. He was also a founding member of the former Independent Community Banks in Illinois (now Community Bankers Association of Illinois) and served as president from 1983-1984. He also served on several other banking association boards. He and Sally enjoyed their many travels and conventions throughout the US especially the Southwest.
He is survived by his children: Kelley Williams Davidson (John) of Springfield, Shawne Combs Woodard of Tremont, and Shad Combs (Patti Quinn) of Pendleton, Indiana; grandsons: Jacob Davidson (Devyn), Charlie Woodard (Gabby), and granddaughter: Wesley Sloan (Tyler); great grandchildren: Owen Davidson and Eleanor Sloan; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and siblings: Loren Combs, Jack Combs, and Nora Kumple.
A funeral service for David will take place at 10:00a.m. on Monday, August 26, 2024, at the Taylorville First United Methodist Church in Taylorville with Pastor Brennan Hurley and Gary McCullough officiating. Burial with veteran’s honors will take place in Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 4:00p.m. until 6:00p.m. at McClure Funeral Home in Taylorville. Memorials may be made to VFW Post #4495, Taylorville First United Methodist Church, or the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.
