Eleanor Kaye Deyerle Combs
Eleanor Kaye Deyerle Combs (February 3, 1939 – January 26, 2025), 85, of Alexandria, Va., originally of Roanoke, Va., passed away on January 26, 2025, peacefully after a long battle with a chronic illness. She had strong faith and was confident her next home would be with our Lord.
“KK” or “Kaye,” as her family and friends knew her, was a beloved mother, sister, aunt, and Mema to her grandchildren. Left to honor her life is her husband of 64 years Richard “Dickie” Combs, originally of Salem, Va.; daughters, Tamorah K. Combs and Kimberley Lee Schmidt (Scott); grandchildren, Bradley Alan Schmidt (Emma), Michael Lee Schmidt (Danielle), and Kaylee Marie Schmidt (Thomas); half brother, Jeff Coleman (Carol), sister, Margaret “Peggy” Deyerle Parr; niece, Stacey D. Rodgers (Mike), nephews, David Parr (Lydia), Donald Parr (Sue), Jeb Coleman (Caehlin), Eric Coleman (Leslie); cousin, Sue Jennings Weller (Bob) and many other Deyerle cousins, great nieces and great nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy Deyerle Coleman and Elmer Norris Deyerle; grandparents, Lillie Jeffries and Howard Jeffries, and half brother, Norris Deyerle.
Born in Roanoke, Va., Kaye graduated from Jefferson Senior High School in 1957. She worked over 20 years for Fairfax County Public Schools before retiring. She was best known for her community services. She took over a local cheerleading organization and it grew to over 300 girls. She designed uniforms, ran it out of her house, and kept the cost to a minimum so it was affordable for most families. She was an avid bowler, competing in women’s and mixed leagues and loved to dance. She was a member of the Franconia Moose Lodge. For 63 years, she raised a severely handicapped daughter and dedicated much of her time to help promote acceptance for all children with special needs. She had endless energy and was a task master for getting things done. Her life was not easy, but now she is at peace. Her strong presence will be missed by all.
A visitation will be open to family and friends on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Lower Parlor of John M. Oakey and Son Funeral Home, Salem. A graveside service will take place Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Sherwood Memorial Park. Those wishing to process to the cemetery should arrive at the funeral home at 10:30.
If you wish to send flowers, they must be received by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, Va., by Friday morning, January 31, 2025.