Kay E. Coombs

Kay E. Coombs, 73, of Dover, a dedicated Registered Nurse known for her compassionate care and adventurous spirit, passed away on August 9, 2024, at Ohio's Hospice Truman House in New Philadelphia. 

Kay was born on August 26, 1950, in Willard, Ohio. She was the daughter of the late George A. and Catherine A. (Pittenger) Bell. 

Kay's professional career was defined by her 37 years of service as a Registered Nurse at Union Hospital, where she primarily worked in the Emergency Room. Her commitment to providing exceptional care to those in need touched the lives of countless patients and colleagues. After retiring from Union Hospital, Kay embraced a new chapter as a travel nurse, a role that allowed her to combine her love for nursing with her passion for travel. Through this opportunity, Kay had the chance to venture to various corners of the globe, immersing herself in different cultures and communities.

She began her educational journey at Greenon High School in Enon, Ohio, and later pursued her dream of becoming a Registered Nurse by graduating from the Community Hospital School of Nursing in Springfield, Ohio. Kay's thirst for knowledge and desire to make a difference in the healthcare field was evident throughout her career as she continued to learn and grow.

Outside of her professional life, Kay found joy in many of her hobbies and interests. She had a deep appreciation for nature and could often be found swimming, biking, or tending to her garden. Kay's adventurous spirit led her to explore destinations far and wide, including her mission trips to the Philippines, Australia, and Ukraine. She also traveled to Hawaii, Lanai, Maui, St. Croix, Israel, and Thailand. Her love for scuba diving and the tranquility of the beach brought her immense happiness and peace.

She had an unwavering faith, which served as a guiding light throughout her life. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Jackson, where her spiritual beliefs provided her with strength and comfort. Kay's kindness, resilience, and genuine spirit endeared her to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In her final moments, Kay was surrounded by her loving family, a testament to the deep bonds she cultivated throughout her lifetime. In July of 1971, she married the love of her life, Ron Coombs. Years later, she was fortunate enough to fall in love with Ron for a second time and the couple remarried in July of 2003. In addition to Ron, she will be sadly missed by her children; Ronald "Ron" James Coombs Jr., Catherine (Robert) Penrod of New Philadelphia, Rachel Coombs (Derrick Barker) of Dover, Paul Coombs of Chestertown, Maryland, and Elizabeth Coombs (Gary Williams) of New Philadelphia; nine beloved grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; two brothers, Allen (Marsha) Bell of Dayton, Eugene (Susanne) Bell of Coshocton; along with many nieces and nephews and beloved extended family members. 

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by two great-grandsons. 

A celebration of Kay's life will take place at the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory in Dover on Friday, August 16, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastors Tom Gang and Aaron Stanley officiating. The MidEast Ohio Nurses Honor Guard will be doing a final call.  Burial will follow at Dover Burial Park. Following the service of committal, a meal will be served at the Toland-Herzig Monarch Center. Friends can call on Thursday, August 15, 2024, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. or on Friday from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. To sign an online guestbook for Kay, visit the obituary link on the funeral home's website. 

Memorial contributions can be made to Ohio's Hospice Truman House, 716 Commercial Ave SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44622.