The community of Warren and Greene Township is mourning the passing of Phoebe Barbara McCombs, age 84, who entered into eternal rest on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at home surrounded by her loving family. Her passing marks the end of a life remembered for devotion to family, steady work, and quiet acts of kindness.
Phoebe was born on September 16, 1941, in Barnesville, Ohio, to Austin Herman Jefferies and Ruth (Coup) Jefferies Barnes. She was a proud 1959 graduate of the last graduating class of Greene High School, a milestone she carried with pride throughout her life.
Following her education, Phoebe built a long and steady career with United Telephone, where she first worked as an operator before transitioning into a task clerk role supporting outside work crews. Her colleagues remember her as dependable, diligent, and committed to doing her work with care and professionalism.
Outside of her career, Phoebe enjoyed simple and meaningful pastimes, including reading and cross-stitching. These hobbies reflected her patient and thoughtful nature, and she found joy in quiet moments spent at home and with family.
Phoebe’s life was deeply centered on her family. She is survived by her husband of nearly 57 years, Paul V. McCombs, whom she married on June 22, 1969. She also leaves behind her daughter Tracy A. McCombs of Niles; her sons Lee A. Kemmer of Fowler, Kenneth J. Kemmer (Melissa Simko) of Liberty Township, and Brian W. McCombs (Kellie) of West Palm Beach, Florida; as well as her grandchildren Cassandra McCombs and Arabella McCombs, along with many extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory.
She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, and one brother.
Funeral services will be conducted privately at a later date, with her urn to be laid to rest at Greene Township Cemetery. The family has expressed gratitude for the love and support they have received and encourages those remembering Phoebe to honor her life by performing acts of kindness in her memory.
Arrangements are entrusted to Staton-Borowski Funeral Home in Warren, Ohio. A television tribute honoring Phoebe’s life will air on local stations at scheduled times.
Phoebe Barbara McCombs will be remembered for her devotion to family, her gentle spirit, and the quiet strength she carried throughout her long life. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
