E. Keith Coombs' Obituary
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of E. Keith Coombs, who passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026, at the age of 88 at the Stuart F Meyer Hospice House in Palm Coast, Florida.
Keith was born on September 27, 1937, in Andover, NY, to the late Van and Mildred (Whitcomb) Coombs. Keith grew up in Addison, NY, alongside his eight siblings, Veta, Leah, Jean, Jack, Burton, Kent, and Judy, all of whom preceded him in death. Keith went on to attend Corning Community College and SUNY Albany, where he was a member of the Sigma Lambda Sigma fraternity.
Keith dedicated much of his career to public service, working as a parole officer within the New York State system. He carried a strong sense of duty and fairness in his work, impacting many lives throughout his years of service. Beyond his career accomplishments, those who knew Keith will remember that he was an avid walker, prolific reader, sharp wordsmith, skilled sharpshooter, and a slicing golfer who appreciated the 19th hole. He enjoyed family dinners, bird hunting with Archie (our English setter), daily crossword puzzles, and witty conversation with a diverse group of lifelong friends and family.
Keith is survived by his children, including Kimberly Jean Coombs Marshall and Vanessa Lee Coombs Miller (John Miller). Keith was also a proud grandfather to several grandchildren, including Brendan (Jordan) Marshall, Allyson (Darion) Carril, Brewster (Amber) Marshall, Milo Miller, and Maize Miller, all of whom brought him great joy. His family will miss his colorful personality, sense of humor, and handwritten letters, in which he shared optimistic words about their futures and expressed his pride in their accomplishments.
Keith will be remembered for his love of the simple life, clever (and sometimes inappropriate) jokes, sage advice (whether we wanted it or not), and the legacy he leaves for his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Friends and family are invited to gather and honor his life at a memorial service to be held at 1 pm on August 1st at St. Catherine’s Cemetery in Addison, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Flagler Beach Library.
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