John Smith McCombs, Jr.

John Smith McCombs, Jr., 64, of Salisbury, passed away peacefully at his residence on March 4, 2026. Born on September 11, 1961, in Washington, D.C., he was the beloved son of Jennie McCombs and the late John Smith McCombs, Sr.

A devoted family man, John cherished every moment spent with his wife, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He treasured family gatherings filled with stories, laughter, and the simple comforts of home. Married to Deborah Price McCombs for 19 loving years, he found joy and strength in their partnership and in the close bonds of family that sustained him throughout his life.

John was educated in the public schools of Rowan County and graduated from Salisbury High School. He was a steadfast worker who applied himself with diligence and pride, with his last places of employment including Sam's Car Wash and McDonald's. Though illness eventually slowed him, his work ethic and quiet determination remained a meaningful part of who he was.

A faithful and active member of Moore's Chapel AME Zion Church, John served on the usher board and was a dedicated member of the Men's Booster Club. His faith was central to his life, and he embraced his church community, freely sharing his gifts and talents wherever they were needed.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Smith McCombs, Sr., his brother, Christopher McCombs, and his maternal grandmother, Leola Nivens.

John leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 19 years, Deborah Price McCombs of Salisbury; his children, Demetrius Neely of Salisbury, Harold Lee Miller and Alixes McCombs of Asheville, Damon McCombs and Sandy McCombs of Baltimore, Maryland, John S. McCombs, III of Lexington, and John S. McCombs, IV of Baltimore; his step-daughters, Ternisha Charleston of Lexington, Terri Charleston of Salisbury, and LaTrece Kelly of Concord; his siblings, Joyce McCombs, Sandra McCombs Henry, Franklyn McCombs (Marilyn), all of Salisbury, and Andre McCombs (Deborah) of Hickory. He was a proud grandfather to 20 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, and he leaves a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives he touched.

John will be remembered for his deep devotion to family and faith, his generous heart, and the steady, humble manner with which he met life's challenges. His memory will live on in the stories told by those who loved him and the many small, meaningful ways he blessed their lives.