PIKEVILLE, Ky. — A longtime Eastern Kentucky optometrist who is credited with modernizing the practice in Kentucky has died.
Dr. Jerald F. Combs died on Monday, following a long illness. He is survived by his wife, Deb, a daughter and two step-sons.
In a statement on its Facebook page, the Kentucky College of Optometry describes Dr. Combs as a giant in the field of optometry, as well as a partner with the college and a longtime member of the Kentucky Optometric Association. He practiced in Martin from 1983 until his retirement in 2019. KYCO’s primary eye clinic on the University of Pikeville campus is named in his honor.
The college partnered with the Kentucky Optometric Association in 2019 to create the Jerald F. Combs Endowed Scholarship for future students. Those wishing to donate to the scholarship in his memory can do so by visiting upike.edu/giving.
The college credited him with the following awards and accomplishments:
- KOA Optometrist of the Year (1987) (1984)
- KOA President (1988-1989)
- KOA Distinguished Service Award (1997) (2003)
- KOA Clifford Leadingham Award (2001))
- KY Board of Optometric Examiners, Member (2003-2017)
- President KY Board of Optometric Examiners (2003) (2005) (2012) (2015)
- Southern Council Optometrist of South (2005)
- AOA State Government Relations Committee (1985-2005)
- AOA Federal Legislative & Keyperson Committee (2005-2009)
- AOA Chair of Advocacy
- University of Pikeville, Board of Trustees and Executive Committee
- Kentucky Jaycees President
- Kiwanis Club President (1989)
- Knott County Little League President (2002-2012)
- Knott County Youth Foundation Vice-President (2002-2012) President (2013)
- Hazard Lions Club President (2012)
