Robert Sanderson Combs Jr.

Robert "McCallum" Combs passed away unexpectedly on June 24th, 2024. He was a proud father, a loving partner, and a diligent worker, who touched the hearts and minds of everyone he met. Robert was born in Massachusetts on May 13th, 1971, to Cyndi Estell. For the next 53 years, he lived a life full of love and adventure. As a member of the Air Force Reserve, he traveled extensively during his decade of military service, and remained in awe of the many sights and cultures he was able to experience, while enjoying his work in a way that only Robert could. His varying hobbies and talents were a testament to his love of learning and his appreciation for living. He was an avid bowler and a respected roller derby referee and coach, a music lover, and talented sound engineer, a HAM radio enthusiast, a survivalist, a board member of various organizations and non-profits, and a student of Aikido, among many other things. He had also gotten pretty good at belting out the Hamilton soundtrack at any opportunity. Robert was a man who loved to laugh, and who kept those around him laughing, even when his jokes were terrible, inappropriate, or both. His positivity was infectious; he had no use for negativity, and those lucky enough to spend time with him often adopted a similar mindset. His calm, unrelenting spirit carried many people through tough times. He believed in supporting anyone trying to better themselves, and helped countless people do exactly that. He provided unwavering support to his children and his partner, constantly encouraging everyone to nurture their talents and make time for the things they enjoyed. 

Robert leaves behind a legacy that truly reaches farther than he ever realized. He is survived by his life partner of 14 years, Sara Corbin, and their home full of pets that he loved and cherished, who are all lost without him; four amazing children, of whom he was enormously proud: son, Jeremiah Combs of Dallas NC, daughter, Chloe (Jacob) Griffin of Marshville NC, daughter, Janna Combs of Charlotte NC, and son, Kyle Combs of Dallas NC, as well as his parents, Cyndi and Norman Estell, sister, Erin (Christopher) Stafford, and two brothers, Robert Bagnall and Kastle Combs. Robert's cousins were enormous in his heart; he is survived by cousins, Michael, James, William, and Thomas Eaton, Crystal Binder, Ronald Sarnelli, Eric Eaton, Heather Wall, and Rebecca Dow. 

Family, friends, colleagues, acquaintances, and everyone in between are invited to gather in memory of Robert on Saturday, June 29th at Benson Funeral Services, 101 Oak Grove St., Mt. Holly, NC from 1-3pm.

 In lieu of flowers, Robert asked that donations be made to an animal rescue or Veteran's benefit of your choice.