October 18, 1936 - September 11, 2025
Omera Harper Combs, born on Oct. 18, 1936, in Boynton, Oklahoma, to Simpson and Ellen Lee Harper, peacefully departed this life on Sept. 11, 2025, at the age of 88.
A proud graduate of Lincoln High School in Bristow, Omera married the love of her life, Samuel Combs Jr., on Jan. 21, 1954. Their union was blessed with five children: Phyllis, Samuel III, Milton, Gayle, and William. Together, they shared over 45 years of love and partnership until Sam’s passing in 1999.
Omera’s commitment to faith and service formed the foundation of her life. Baptized at an early age, she dedicated more than 80 years to Christian service with Cooper Chapel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. Her roles included church secretary/treasurer, steward, and Lay Delegate for the AME Church, all of which she fulfilled with diligence. As a pianist, Omera began accompanying church services at age 16 and continued in this capacity throughout her lifetime.
Professionally, Mrs. Combs was a certified bookkeeper and administrative specialist, known for her integrity and commitment. Early in her career, she contributed to the Apollo space program as part of the team at North American Rockwell wiring sub-assemblies. Her dedication reached beyond her job to her community, where she served as an officer and member of the Lincoln Alumni Association, Order of the Eastern Star Magdalene Chapter No. 70, was a lifetime NAACP member, and as an election poll worker for over 40 years. In addition, she was an officer and board member of the Retired Educators for Youth Agriculture Program (REYAP), collaborating closely with her husband. Her work with REYAP earned her the Agricultural Heritage Award and official commendations from the Oklahoma Governor and State Legislature.
Omera was a devoted mother and excellent cook who found joy in family meals and celebrations, church fellowship, reading, traveling, playing piano, watching basketball, and conversations with friends. Mrs. Combs was an advocate for education and maintained a longterm relationship with Langston University, from participating in high school field trips, to regularly attending homecoming events, and engaging with the university through her work with REYAP. She encouraged discipline and high standards and was known for her quick wit. Her contributions and spirit of faith, compassion, and service are recognized by her church, family, and community.
She is survived by four children; Phyllis Joseph (Theodore), Samuel Combs III (Rita), Gayle Combs, William Combs (Rhonda); one brother, Milton Harper Sr. (Doretha); one sister Azzie Immanuel; two brothers-in-law, Bobby Hughes and Edward Combs; eight grandchildren, Damon Joseph (Renee), Theodore Joseph Jr., Erika Combs, Samuel E. Combs IV (Kylia), M. Dexter Combs (Alexis), DeAmber Joseph (Eddie), W. Nicholus Combs (Jovanna), Micah Combs (Lachauncia); 18 greatgrandchildren, Geeovanta Rogers, Kaylen Bolden, Kyeria Joseph, Daviion Wycoff, Tyia Joseph, Elijah Joseph, Cereniti Joseph, T’Andre Joseph, M’Kiah Joseph, Samuel T. Combs, Nora Combs, Rayne & Royal Combs, Cyrus Combs, Sebastian Combs, Nicholus N. Combs, Evin & Ean Washington, and a host of nieces and nephews. Omera was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son Milton Dewayne Combs, brother Charles Harper, and brother-in-law, Carl Hughes.