Born on July 30, 1928, in El Dorado, Arkansas to John Thomas and Verta Parker Woolley, Mary Lynn was known for being hard-working and adventurous throughout her long and fulfilling life.
Mary Lynn was extremely studious, graduating as salutatorian of her high school class. She had the unique opportunity to live through and experience historical events in the making, which shaped her perspective and enriched her life experiences.
For over 70 years, Mary Lynn worked in the business that she and her husband founded. Her work ethic was a true testament to all who had the privilege of working with her.
In her personal life, Mary Lynn had a profound love for music and was an accomplished pianist. She and her husband enjoyed decades of performances with season tickets to the Houston Pops Symphony Orchestra. Mary Lynn was also an incredible cook, renowned for her Sunday Roast and extraordinary cakes. A devoted alumnae and fan of the Arkansas Razorbacks, she followed the teams with great enthusiasm. She also enjoyed her days spent with Zeta Tau Alpha sorority sisters and fund raising for area charities.
Mary Lynn had a big presence and left a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who knew her. She was known for her infectious laugh. She was a devout Christian and long standing member of Chapelwood United Methodist Church.
A visitation will be held on October 11, 2025, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home, located at 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77077. Following the visitation, a committal service will take place from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, at the same address.
Mary Lynn's Celebration of Life will be held in the chapel of Chapelwood United Methodist Church on November 8, 2025, at 1:00 pm, located at 11140 Greenbay, Houston, Texas.
Mary Lynn Combs will be remembered for her devotion to her family, intelligence, dedication, and the warmth she brought into the lives of others.
Mary Lynn is survived by her 3 children: John (Jodie) Combs, Judy (Randy) Smith, Janet Combs; her grandchildren: Kelly (Bannon) Dye, Drew Combs, Michelle (Merry Anna) Allebach, Brian (Emily) Smith and great grandchildren Emily and Avery Dye, William Simmons, Layton Combs, Hannah, William and Matthew Reay, Stella and Abby Smith; cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and friends
In lieu of customary remembrances, donations honoring Mary Lynn's memory may be made to the Chapelwood United Methodist Church Foundation Education Fund, St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, and the Houston Pops Symphony Orchestra.
