JERALD F. COMBS, O.D. By STACEY WALTERS
s a man dedicated to paying respect to the past, connecting people in the present and setting a vision for the future of optometry, Jerald F. Combs, O.D., was truly a giant and unwavering advocate for the profession of optometry. It was with great sadness that the Kentucky College of Optometry noted his passing in December of 2021, but it is with hope that they look toward a future where doctors of optometry build on the foundation that he established.
Over a long and distinguished professional career, Combs practiced primarily in Martin, Ky., along with Hazard and Whitesburg, Ky. Former chair of the American Optometry Association (AOA) Advocacy Group Executive Committee, he was recognized with the AOA President’s Award for his exceeding commitment and service to advance the profession of optometry.
As an innovative leader of vision-care in Kentucky’s optometric practice since 1983, Combs served as president of the Kentucky Optometric Association (KOA) from 1988-1989. He is also credited with changing the landscape for optometric practice in the Commonwealth of Kentucky with his push for in-office laser surgery.
Combsʼ connection to UPIKE began when his daughter, Elizabeth Combs Royse KYCOM ʼ10, enrolled and graduated from medical school. Combs began serving on the board of trustees and its executive committee in 2014. He relinquished his seat on the board to join KYCO as a faculty member in 2016. During that time, he became a clinical preceptor at two outlying clinics that optometry students used for rotations located in Eastern Kentucky.
Combs was a nationally-known optometrist whose influence was extraordinary. He is remembered for confronting and removing barriers, winning numerous awards, serving selflessly in leadership positions and mentoring and inspiring generations of students, academics, future leaders and change-makers.
Executive Director of KOA Dinah Bevington says Combs was a true pioneer in Kentucky optometry and for the profession across the nation.
“Dr. Combs knew the best way to help his patients was to provide the highest level of quality patient care and the best way to shape the future was to teach others about this importance,” said Bevington. “He mentored dozens of optometrists and tirelessly educated legislators on the critical role of optometry. Although he is tremendously missed, his impact will be felt for generations to come.”
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Among his honors is two-time KOA Optometrist of the Year and double KOA Distinguished Service Award. Combs served on the Kentucky Board of Optometric Examiners from 2003 to 2017, including four years as its president. He also was active with AOA advocacy, including 20 years with the AOA State Government Relations Committee and five years on the AOA Federal Legislative and Keyperson Committee.
“Dr. Combs lived a life of service to others and to the optometric profession. As a KYCO faculty member and a preceptor, he had a positive impact on students and alumni that will benefit them throughout their careers,” said Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations David Hutchens. “We are humbled that our eye clinic on campus, which provides access to vision care in our underserved region, bears Dr. Combs’ name.”
