Ronald James "Ron" Coombs

Ronald James “Ron” Coombs Sr., 76, of Dover, Ohio, passed away on January 5, 2026, at Ohio’s Hospice Truman House in New Philadelphia. He was born on August 29, 1949, in Bath, New York, to the late Charles and Betty (Adams) Coombs.

Ron spent his childhood on a farm, where he helped raise dairy cows and chickens—experiences that shaped his strong work ethic and appreciation for simple, honest labor. As a young boy, he also developed a lifelong passion for coin collecting, sparked while earning money through his paper route.

He attended Avoca Central School through the eighth grade and later graduated from West High School in Painted Post, New York, in 1967. Ron attended North Baptist in Corning, New York, until leaving for college in the fall of 1967.

Ron attended Cedarville College from 1967 to 1971. During his college years, he was deeply involved in music, singing first tenor in the concert choir and being selected to perform with the Kingsman Quartet, which toured throughout the United States. He also sang in the Dominic Greco Band for over 20 years and the Tuba Fours. Also, while at Cedarville, Ron was trained as an EMT and served with the college paramedic team. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Kay Bell, whom he married on July 13, 1971. Years later, he was fortunate enough to fall in love with Kay again for the second time and remarried on July 5, 2003. Ron and Kay enjoyed traveling. They went on countless trips to Hawaii, the Virgin Islands, and Florida. They never missed an opportunity to explore the world.

In August of 1971, amid the Vietnam War, Ron enlisted in the United States Navy. He served honorably for six years, attaining the rank of E-5, and completed his final assignment aboard the USS William R. Rush, a Navy destroyer stationed in New York City. He became a lieutenant before he was honorably discharged in 1977.

Following his military service, Ron was selected for a managerial position at Marlite Corporation, a role that brought him to Dover, Ohio. While living in Dover, he earned his MBA and shared his love of science by teaching chemistry part-time at Kent State University.

In recent years, Ron found great joy working at Witmers General Store and as a driver for Walnut Creek Foods. He genuinely loved the people he worked with and affectionately referred to them as “his girls,” valuing the friendships and camaraderie the job brought him.

Ron had a strong faith and devoted his life to serving the Lord. He constantly recited Bible verses, letting God’s Word guide his actions and strengthen those around him.

Ron leaves behind his children; Ronald “Ron” James Coombs Jr., Catherine (Robert) Penrod, Rachel Coombs (Derrick Barker), Paul Coombs (Isabel Martinez), Elizabeth Coombs (Gary Williams); ten grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his sister, Ruth Ann (John) Kanost; brother, Steve (Diane) Coombs; he brothers in-law, William Scouten, and Allen Bell, and Eugene (Susanne) Bell; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and Kay, he was preceded in death by three great-grandsons, his sister, Nancy Scouten, his nephew, David Scouten, and his sister-in-law, Marsha Bell.

Calling hours will be held at the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory in Dover on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 2-4 pm. A celebration of Ronald’s life will be held at the funeral home on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 11:00 am with Pastor Aaron Stanley officiating. Friends can call one hour before the service. Burial will follow at the Dover Burial Park, where the New Philadelphia VFW will conduct military honors. A meal will follow at the Toland-Herzig Monarch Center.  To sign an online guestbook for Ron, visit the obituary link on the funeral home’s website.

Memorial contributions can be made to Ohio’s Hospice Truman House, 716 Commercial Ave SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663, or the First Baptist Church of Jackson, 8925 Strausser St. NW Massillon, Ohio 44646.