Henry “Hager” Combs
Age 87, of Bellbrook formerly West Alexandria, passed away Tuesday, October 27, 2026. He was born November 10, 1938 in Clayhole, Kentucky to the late Francis Marion and Catherine Combs. In addition to his parents, Hager was preceded in death by his infant twin brother, Hayden, and brothers, Earl and Kenneth Ray Combs. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, C. Marilyn Combs; son and his wife, Keith A. and Kathy Combs; grandchildren, Thomas, Matthew, and Lauren Combs; brother and his wife, Jim and Sue Combs; sisters-in-law, Mildred Witt, Connie Combs, and Donna Combs; several nieces and nephews; and many more family and friends. Hager answered the call to serve his country on December 7, 1961, when he was drafted in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Thailand in the years before the Vietnam War and earned the rank of Private First Class. He was honorably discharged on December 6, 1963, and carried the pride of that service with him for the rest of his life. After returning home, Hager began a career with Daimler Chrysler, where he worked on the assembly line for 32 years. He was a dependable, hardworking man who showed up and gave his best, and he retired with the respect of those who worked beside him. Hager was a proud member of Masonic Solar Lodge #730 of Dayton, where he valued the fellowship and brotherhood of his lodge. Hager was happiest outdoors. He took great pride in his yard and spent countless hours tending his vegetable garden, where he grew green beans, potatoes, and onions. Many a family meal was made better by what he brought in from the garden, and those who knew him will remember his patience and the care he put into everything he grew. The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton for being so amazing with the care they provided to Hager. A visitation will be held Sunday, November 1 at PREBLE MEMORY GARDENS FUNERAL CENTER, West Alexandria, from 3PM to 5PM. The funeral service will begin at 11AM on Monday, November 2 with Pastor Donnie Smith officiating. Hager will be laid to rest with military honors at Preble Memory Gardens Cemetery, West Alexandria. PMGFC.com
