Jerry Thomas McCombs embarked on his greatest adventure Wednesday, September 8, 2021.

Born in Marlinton, West Virginia to Cecil and Ella McCombs, and later moving to Rome, Ohio, Tom was raised in a humble yet happy home where he learned the value of hard work and the joy found in music and time spent with family.

Tom served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and continued to serve his fellow veterans through his work with the DAV and his local chapter of Vietnam Veterans. Working with his DAV friends was one of his joys. Locally he volunteered for the Hearing Loss Association of America, and participated in hosting events.

After leaving the Army, Tom met the love of his life, Diane, and they began a life and family together in Chattanooga. Tom worked for a time at Eclipse Boiler Makers, then later started his career with the U.S Postal Service, retiring in 2003.

Tom was a lover of baseball, golf, football, outdoor life, kayaking, bicycling, camping and adventure. His happiness was found on the road to see new places and being around people.

He is survived by his children, Christina (Stephen) Turpin, Jerri McCombs, Jessica (Jason) Moore; grandsons, Corbin and Wesley Moore, Declan Turpin and Forrest Rose; his siblings, Mary Conley (OH), Barbara (David) Subotnik (OH), Pat (Don) DiPerna (FL), Karen (Junior) Pack (OH) and Andrew (Lori) McCombs (OH). He also leaves behind his recent bride, Carolyn (Lawson) and many dear nieces, nephews and friends.

He will be greatly missed and remembered for the happiness and love he shared with so many.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 16, 2021 at Hamilton Funeral Home.

Interment will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. with Military Honors.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and on Thursday, September 16, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. prior to the service at Hamilton Funeral Home.