Jerry Wayne Combrink
Jerry Wayne Combrink, a cherished husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, in Durant, Oklahoma, at the age of 84. Born on February 14, 1941, in Tonkawa, Oklahoma, Jerry’s life was marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his faith.
Jerry’s journey began as the son of Wilbur E. and Ernestine E. (Goldsmith) Combrink. He grew up in a loving family alongside his siblings, learning the values of hard work and community service from a young age. He married the love of his life, Linda Kay Moran, on August 2, 1963, in Caddo, Oklahoma, forming a partnership of love and joy in every second. Together, they went on to raise three children, carrying on the legacy of the values he was raised with.
After earning a master’s degree plus 30 hours at the University of Oklahoma, he dedicated his career to shaping young minds as the Superintendent for Boswell Schools for 17 years and Blue Schools as Superintendent for 13 years and as math and science teacher and principal for 10 years. Jerry’s 40-year commitment to education was unwavering. During his career, he oversaw the addition of several buildings at each school, of which staff and students could all be proud. His leadership and vision left an indelible mark, not only on the physical landscapes of his schools, but also on the educational landscape of Oklahoma.
His service to his community extended beyond his professional life. He was a proud member of the Boswell and Caddo Masonic Lodges, where he found fellowship doing numerous pie auctions to help those in need and an avenue to contribute to the community.
A man of faith, Jerry was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Durant, where he was involved in the Senior Adult Ministry and as teacher and member of the chapel class. His Christian beliefs were the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and interactions with everyone he met.
Those left to carry on Jerry’s legacy include his wife, Linda Combrink, of Durant, Oklahoma, and his children, Michael Combrink of Duncan, Oklahoma, Dr. Mark Combrink of Allen, Texas, and Michelle Wilhite of Calera, Oklahoma, as well as his grandchildren, Tyler Combrink, Dylan Combrink, and Greyson Combrink. He is also survived by his sister Carolyn Thomas and his brothers Fred Combrink and Gary Combrink.
He was preceded in death by his parents Wilbur and Ernestine Combrink, and brothers, Dr. C. Roy Combrink and Dale D. Combrink.
Friends and family gathered at his Family Hour on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home. A funeral service to honor and remember Jerry’s life was held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, June 30, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Durant with Reverend Garry McNeill officiating. Jerry was laid to rest in Gethsemane Cemetery in Caddo following his funeral service.
Serving as pallbearers were Guy Snow, Dr. Stanley Pope, Brett Angelly, Tommy Kramer, Mike Robinson, and Court Nichols. Honorary Pallbearers were Boswell Masonic Lodge Members, past and present, and all of his students.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to a scholarship fund established in honor of Jerry Combrink for a graduating senior at Boswell High School. Donations can be hand delivered to the business office at 604 7th Street in Boswell, OK 74727, or mailed to PO Box 839, Boswell, OK 74727. For more information, please contact the school directly at 580-566-2558.
Services were under the care of Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home, 121 North 5th Street, Durant, Oklahoma 74701. www.holmescoffeymurray.com.
The highest thanks and praise possible to Centric Health and Hospice Durant, especially Jennifer, Scott Rowland, and Jessica Love Testerman, former students, Dr. Kevin Gordon, the First Baptist Church family, Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home and everyone who came to his service for the tremendous care, kindness and love you gave to Jerry, Mr. Combrink, Mr. C. ~from the Combrink Family