Michael Coombs

Michael Coombs, 93, of Lynchburg, Virginia passed away peacefully on June 5th, 2025 after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Ellen Whittaker Coombs, 5 children: Deborah Decker of Bedford, VA (Brian), Sally Travis of Leesburg, VA (William), Kevin Coombs of Manlius, NY (Kathy), Rosalind Kellum of Danville, PA (James) and Graham Coombs of Jamesville, NY (Kelly) as well as 4 grandchildren Tamya Pauley, Lydia Coombs, Lauren Travis, Wells Travis and 2 great grandchildren, Ava and Trevor Pauley.

Michael was born November 18, 1931 in Canterbury, Kent, England to George and Betty Coombs. He married Ellen Whittaker on March 17, 1956 in Canterbury. Soon after their wedding, they immigrated to Toronto, Canada where Debby was born. In 1959, they moved to Syracuse, NY and lived in Syracuse and Manlius as the rest of their family was born and raised.

Michael attended the City & Guilds of London Institute with a degree in Carpentry and Joinery graduating in 1954. These skills carried him throughout his life as he built their first home and sailboat. As a Civil Engineer by trade, he worked for M.A. Bongiovanni of Syracuse, New York for over 30 years and retired in 1991 enjoying 34 years of retirement with his beloved wife Ellen.

Memorial Services will be private.

Donations may be made in Michael’s name to Centra Hospice for their excellent care and guidance during this difficult journey. https://www.centrahealth.com/foundation/make-a-gift

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg is assisting the family.