Tanner Combs Death & Obituary: – The Kingsport and Church Hill communities are heartbroken over the untimely passing of Tanner Combs, a cherished coach, educator, and mentor, who died unexpectedly on Thursday at the age of 25. Known for his passion, faith, and dedication to shaping young lives through athletics and education, Tanner’s death is a profound loss to the students, colleagues, and communities he served with such love and purpose.
A Lifelong Passion for Coaching and Youth Development
A proud native of Church Hill, Tennessee, Tanner Combs was a 2015 graduate of Volunteer High School, where his love for sports and leadership began. He went on to attend East Tennessee State University (ETSU), earning both a bachelor’s degree in coaching and physical fitness and a master’s degree in strength and conditioning—clear evidence of his lifelong mission to mentor and guide young athletes and students.
Impact in the Kingsport City Schools System
At the time of his passing, Tanner held multiple impactful roles within the Kingsport City Schools system:
- Assistant football and basketball coach at Robinson Middle School
- Assistant sports performance coach at Dobyns-Bennett High School
- College and career readiness teacher at Robinson Middle School
In each of these roles, Tanner was known for his enthusiastic coaching style, genuine care for students, and unshakable commitment to character-building both on and off the field. Students and fellow educators recall him as a steady, inspiring presence whose faith and positivity made him a role model to many.
A Community Mourns a Mentor and Friend
In a statement, Andy True, Assistant Superintendent of Kingsport City Schools, shared:
“Like so many in our community, the Kingsport City Schools family is devastated by the sudden passing of Coach Combs. His passion for students was evident in all he did. The impact of his work and dedication is immense.”
Tributes have poured in from across the region, especially from the athletic community. Kingsport Hoops, the official Dobyns-Bennett basketball program, honored Coach Combs with a heartfelt message:
“His impact on students, athletes, and colleagues was profound and lasting. Coach Combs was also a man of deep faith, and that faith was evident in the way he lived, led, and cared for others. We mourn together, and we stand united in his memory — as One Tribe.”
Remembering Tanner Combs: A Life of Faith, Purpose, and Leadership
Beyond his professional achievements, Tanner was known for his deep Christian faith, kind spirit, and the ability to forge genuine relationships. He inspired trust, offered encouragement during times of difficulty, and celebrated growth and progress with his students and athletes.
Tanner is survived by his loving wife, his devoted family, and countless students, athletes, friends, and colleagues who admired and respected him. His legacy will live on in the many lives he uplifted through mentorship, guidance, and heartfelt care.
Funeral Arrangements and Community Support
Details for Tanner Combs’ memorial services and funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in the coming days. In the meantime, the Kingsport and Church Hill communities are encouraged to come together in support of one another and to continue Tanner’s legacy of service, compassion, and strength.
Final Thoughts: Honoring a Legacy of Heart and Purpose
Tanner Combs’ life, though brief, was filled with purpose, love, and profound impact. At just 25, he had already touched hundreds of lives, leaving behind a lasting legacy of leadership, humility, and unwavering care for others. His passing is a reminder of the incredible difference one person can make in the lives of many.
Rest in peace, Coach Combs. You will forever be remembered as a guiding light in the hearts of those you served.