Billy O'Neal Combs

Billy O’Neal Combs, 84, of Watkinsville, passed away on Monday, November 2, 2026.

Born in Athens, he was a son of the late Marvin “Bo” Combs and Elia Marie Whitehead Combs. Billy was a 1960 graduate of Athens High School and proudly served his country as a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves. He dedicated 25 years of service to Bellsouth before retiring. A man of many talents and interests, Billy was a gifted singer, songwriter, and musician who found joy in sharing his love of music with others. He was also an inventor, earning a patent for a component of a burglar alarm system. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Betty Archer and Bobby Combs; sisters-in-law, Faye Kellar and Peggy Whitehead; brother-in-law, Bo Hardigree and nephew, Greg Kellar.

Survivors include his wife of over 61 years, Alice Coker Combs; sister-in-law, Joyce Hardigree; brother-in-law, David Whitehead; nieces, Tamela Campbell (Alan), Holly Stephenson (Tom) and Candace Glading (David); nephews, Neal Combs, Travis Whitehead (Kathy) and Jeff Kellar (Heather) and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2026 at 2:30 pm at Evergreen Memorial Park. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 until 2:00 pm at the funeral home.

Lord and Stephens, West is in charge of arrangements.

www.lordandstephens.com