December 22, 2025, 74, Goldsboro – Rodney Dean Combs went home to be with his Lord on the morning of December 22, 2025, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center, surrounded by compassionate care and love.
Dean was born on August 26, 1949, in Wayne County. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he was stationed at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, and later served in Vietnam in 1968. In recognition of his faithful and courageous service, Dean was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, Expert (M-14), and Sharpshooter (M-16). He was also officially commended by the Department of the Army for exceptional performance of duty as a heavy mobile equipment mechanic, a role in which his skill and dedication were widely respected.
A highly skilled mechanic by trade, Dean was known as a hard worker with a strong work ethic and a willingness to help anyone in need. He possessed a wonderful sense of humor and had a special gift for making others laugh, bringing joy to those around him.
Dean greatly enjoyed life and embraced many hobbies, including NASCAR, fishing, woodworking, golfing with his buddies, camping, PT cruising, traveling, and visiting countless barbecue restaurants. He treasured the many friendships he and his beloved wife, Kathy, made over the years, and the memorable trips they shared together.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a service at 12:30 pm in the chapel with Rev. Ricky Yelverton officiating. Interment will be at 2:00 p.m. in Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery with military honors.
Dean was preceded in death by his mother, Ellen Yelverton, and his twin sister, Gloria Jean Beagle.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Kathy Combs; his son, Christopher Combs; his sister, Mary Quick and husband Ken; his brothers, Ricky Yelverton and wife Sheila, Joey Yelverton and wife Diane, and Jeffrey Yelverton; and many nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to their friends, neighbors, the VA, paramedics, UNC Wayne staff, and the compassionate caregivers at Kitty Askins Hospice Center for their love, prayers, and support throughout Dean’s health journey.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Kitty Askins Hospice Center, 107 Handley Park Court, Goldsboro, NC 27534.
The theme for Dean’s service will be “It’s a Wonderful Life”, honoring his favorite movie and a life that truly reflected love, service, laughter, and devotion.
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