Hillis, Combs & Nestor Funeral Home

Hillis, Combs & Nestor Funeral Home http://www.hilliscombsnestor.com - Honoring the life of your loved one means you value the relations

In honor of National Fountain Pen Day, a few of my favorite writing instruments.
11/07/2025

In honor of National Fountain Pen Day, a few of my favorite writing instruments.

Jeremie Kent Gifford, of Zanesville, passed away on November 2, 2025, at the age of 49. His passing followed a long and ...
11/06/2025

Jeremie Kent Gifford, of Zanesville, passed away on November 2, 2025, at the age of 49. His passing followed a long and courageous battle with mental health challenges, which he faced with remarkable strength and perseverance.

Jeremie was born on October 2, 1976 in Pensacola, FLA to Randall K. Gifford and H. Yvonne McPeak Factor.

Jeremie was a man of deep love and unwavering devotion to his family—especially his beloved children, Sawyer Gifford and Harper Gifford, who were the light of his life. He cherished every moment with them and found his greatest joy in being their father.

In addition to Sawyer, Harper and Yvonne (Steve Newcome), Jeremie is survived by his sister, Anthea Hammond (Gerry) of Gahanna, his nephew, Jaden Hammond of Lackland Air Force Base, Texas; his niece Ava Hammond of Gahanna, his uncle, Mike McPeak (Judy) of McArthur, Aunts: Kathy McKenzie of Dublin, Carol Dingey of Zanesville, Judi Ponchak (Gary) of Pennsylvania and Kathy Randa (Jim) of Mason. He is also survived by his paternal grandmother Marilyn (Gifford) Roth of Columbus, step-father Bill Factor Zanesville, Barbara Huth, Jeremie’s soul mate who gave him unconditional love, companionship and care; and the mother of his children, Sara Gifford (Derek Gorsuch). Numerous cousins and friends will also mourn his loss.
Preceding Jeremie in death was his father, his uncle Steve Gifford, his maternal grandparents John and Barbara McPeak and paternal grandfather Don Gifford.
Those who knew Jeremie will remember his laughter, his sense of humor, his quiet resilience, his contagious smile and his striking blue eyes. Despite the many struggles he faced, he continued to love fiercely and to fight bravely. His life is a reminder of both the fragility and the strength of the human spirit.

Services will be held on November 8, 2025 at the Hillis, Combs, Nestor Funeral Home at 935 Forest Ave. Zanesville, OH. Calling hours are 11am to 12pm. Services begin at 12pm with Pastor Tim Patton officiating. Burial will be at a later date at the Zanesville Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to organizations supporting mental health awareness and su***de prevention, in honor of Jeremie’s courage and compassion.

Jeremie’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him most. May he now find the peace he so deeply deserved.

To sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note of condolence please visit www.hilliscombsfh.com.

KhyRee A. Umstott, 5, of Zanesville, died 7:57 PM, Sunday, November 2, 2025, at his home, under the care of Shriver’s Ho...
11/04/2025

KhyRee A. Umstott, 5, of Zanesville, died 7:57 PM, Sunday, November 2, 2025, at his home, under the care of Shriver’s Hospice. He was born Monday, November 11, 2019, in Zanesville, the son of Melinda L. (Wiley) Umstott and Katie M. Umstott.

KhyRee was a kindergartener at John McIntire Elementary; he loved Hot Wheels Cars and monster trucks. He was full of energy and loved to have dance parties with his niece, and play with all his special friends. KhyRee was the baby expert of the family.

In addition to his mothers, Melinda and Katie, KhyRee is survived by five sisters, Kianna (Evan Perry) Norris, Kennia Norris, Kiersten Norris, KayLee (Mike Moorhead) Norris and Karynna McCrea; grandparents, Kathy Hale & Phil Embrescia, and Beverly & Jeff Singleton; two nieces, Eila & Edyn Perry; several aunts and uncles including a special aunt, Marrisa Hale, and numerous cousins and a host of friends.

KhyRee was preceded in death by his aunt, Reese Ferrell.

Friends may call from 10:00 AM till 1:00 PM, Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Trinity Full Gospel Church, 535 Munson Avenue, Zanesville, where funeral services will follow at 1:00 PM, with Rev. Pastor Donnie Rowland officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery. To sign the online register book or to send a personal condolence note please visit www.hilliscombsfh.com.

In times of loss, remember: your sorrow is a reflection of a love that mattered deeply.Be gentle with yourself. You’re n...
11/04/2025

In times of loss, remember: your sorrow is a reflection of a love that mattered deeply.

Be gentle with yourself. You’re not alone.





No tricks here—just a team you can count on. 🍁At Hillis, Combs & Nestor, we know trust is everything. That’s why we show...
10/31/2025

No tricks here—just a team you can count on. 🍁

At Hillis, Combs & Nestor, we know trust is everything. That’s why we show up every day with compassion, care, and a true commitment to the families we serve.

Wishing you a safe and happy fall season!





Having fun passing candy out for Halloween, at the funeral home.
10/26/2025

Having fun passing candy out for Halloween, at the funeral home.

Teresa M. Ferrell, 58 of Zanesville, died 7:01 AM, Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Genesis Morrison House Hospice. She w...
10/25/2025

Teresa M. Ferrell, 58 of Zanesville, died 7:01 AM, Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Genesis Morrison House Hospice. She was born Tuesday, March 7, 1967, in Columbus, the daughter of Donald C. Ferrell, Sr. and Mary L. (Tate) Ferrell.

Teresa never met a stranger, and had a heart of gold for her family and friends. She loved doing diamond art, and had a very large collection. You could always find Teresa assisting her sister, Kathy, with any project or task they could get into together. She was a loving and caring mother, grandmother and sister, who cherished the time she spent with her family.

Teresa is survived by two sons, William "W***y" Whitley and Keith Whitley; four grandchildren; several great grandchildren; four siblings, Lynn Tate, Louise Rodriquze, Kathy Hale and Amanda Oliver; several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and a host of friends.

In addition to her parents, Teresa was preceded in death by her siblings, Donna Gillman, Donald C. Ferrell, Jr. and Gerald Ferrell.

Friends may call 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at the Hillis Combs Funeral Home, 935 Forest Avenue, Zanesville, where Funeral Services will follow at 1:00 PM, with Pastor John Cottrell officiating. To sign the online register book or to send a personal condolence note please visit www.hilliscombsnestor.com

Velma A. Shaffer-Toole, 96 of Zanesville, died 9:31 PM, Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at Brookdale Senior Living in Zanes...
10/25/2025

Velma A. Shaffer-Toole, 96 of Zanesville, died 9:31 PM, Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at Brookdale Senior Living in Zanesville. She was born Saturday, August 10, 1929 in Zanesville, the daughter of Andrew Shaffer and Hailly (Marsh) Shaffer. She married William L. Toole on Saturday, January 31, 1953, and was a member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church.

Velma was the Operations Manager for Merrill-Lynch & Company, retiring in 1992 following over 43 years of service. She enjoyed being outdoors, was an avid gardener, and loved painting landscape portraits.

Velma is survived by two sisters, Audrey (Jerry) Smith and Frieda Sikora; one brother-in-law, Raymond Toole; one sister-in-law, Patricia Toole; numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and a host of friends and acquaintances.

In addition to her parents, Velma was preceded in death her husband, William L. Toole, who died October 6, 1985; ten siblings, Dorsey, Edna, Harold, Gerald, Bob, Helen, Howard, Donald, Kenneth and Ralph; her loving companion of many years, Edward Lewellen.

Friends may call from 9:30 to 11:00 AM, Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Hillis Combs Funeral Home, 935 Forest Avenue, where Funeral Services will follow at 11:00 AM, with Fr. David Young officiating. Velma will be laid to rest beside her husband in Mt. Olive Cemetery. To sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note of condolence please visit www.hilliscombsfh.com.

10/23/2025

As the leaves change and we step into the heart of fall, we’re reminded of the traditions and memories that keep our loved ones close. Whether it’s a favorite recipe, a shared walk, or a quiet moment, these memories live on. 🍂💛



Sheri L. Mahon, born July 31, 1965, to Carol Smith and Frank Gassaway, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her ...
10/21/2025

Sheri L. Mahon, born July 31, 1965, to Carol Smith and Frank Gassaway, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer on October 20, 2025.

Sheri was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and “Nanny.” She and her husband, Jim, shared 39 wonderful years of marriage, celebrating their union on August 1, 1986. Together they built a beautiful family, raising three children: Jessica Mahon (Richie Baker), Cory Mahon, and Kim Mahon (Jayson Singer). Sheri’s greatest joy in life was her five grandchildren: Alexis Clark, Kohlsyn Singer, Zoey Mahon, Dalton Mahon, and Ryland Singer. She loved them deeply and made it her mission to spoil them every chance she got.

In addition to her husband and children, she is survived by her mother, Carol Smith; her brother, Terry (Tammy) Gassaway: Also surviving are her marital sisters-in-law Tina (Dan) Miller, Crystal (Kevin) Holland, and Mary Ann Passwaters; several nieces and nephews; and her loyal canine companion, Rocko.

Sheri was preceded in death by her brother, Tommy Gassaway; grandmother, Jessie Roberts; grandfather, Emmitt Roberts; and step-father, David Smith.

Sheri will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She was fiercely loyal, unafraid to speak her mind, and always stood up for those she loved. Her strength, love, and unwavering spirit were unmatched during her battle with cancer. Sheri’s love, loyalty, and obsession with owls were truly one of a kind, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her.

Friends may call from 10:00 AM to 12 Noon, Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Hillis Combs Funeral Home, 935 Forest Avenue, Zanesville, where services will follow at 12 Noon, with Rev Darren Tolbert officiating. Sheri will be laid to rest in Zanesville Memorial Park. To sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note of condolence please visit www.hilliscombsfh.com.

Preplanning now allows your family to focus on what truly matters later: togetherness, peace, and remembrance.Take a qui...
10/15/2025

Preplanning now allows your family to focus on what truly matters later: togetherness, peace, and remembrance.

Take a quiet moment this season to think ahead. Preplanning is a gift of clarity, comfort, and love.





Larry Lee Paul, 90, of Zanesville, died, Monday, October 13, 2025, at his home. He was born Saturday, July 13, 1935, in ...
10/14/2025

Larry Lee Paul, 90, of Zanesville, died, Monday, October 13, 2025, at his home. He was born Saturday, July 13, 1935, in Zanesville, the son of Joseph A. Paul and Dorothy M. (Gassner) Paul. He married Carolyn L. (Harris) Paul on Saturday, November 16, 1974, and was a long-time faithful member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church.

Larry was Bricklayer by trade, and served as Vice President for Paul Contracting, Maple Avenue. Following retiring from Paul Contracting, he served as Construction Superintendent with Shelly & Sands and their subsidiaries. Larry was most proud of all the buildings he had constructed, and the many, many projects he was responsible for. Including Buckeye Supply Building, the Dillon Dam Project, First Christian Church, Rosecrans Gymnasium, Susan Edwards Hospital at Bethesda Hospital, and Marietta High School.

He was a member of the Ohio Bricklayers and Allied Craftsmen Union, of which he was a 50-year-member. Larry enjoyed gardening, and timbering his own wood from his property, to build his beautiful furniture. He enjoyed woodworking, country music and square dancing with his wife, Carolyn.

In addition to his wife, Carolyn, Larry is survived by eight children, Rochelle (Tim) Smith, Beth (Buzz) Spence, Gregory (Laurel) Paul, Carl Morgan, Bret (Kelley) Morgan, Eric (Vickie) Paul, Bruce (Lisa) Paul, Larry Joe (Kim) Paul; grandchildren, Jeremy (Alicia) Anker, Lyndsey (Jim) Edbrooke, Katy (Kurt) Baumgartner, Cody (Brittany) Morgan, Justin Morgan, Haylee Rockwell, Anna Paul and Alaina Paul; twenty great grandchildren; siblings, Norita (Charles) Hamilton, Vic (Marlene) Paul and Pat (Theresa) Paul; one grandson-in-law, Chuck Moss; one granddaughter-in-law, Sarah Spence.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his first wife, Ruby Paul; two grandchildren, Arielle Moss and Kyle Spence.

Friends may call from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM, Friday, October 17, 2025, at the Hillis Combs Funeral Home, 935 Forest Avenue, Zanesville. Immediately following visitation, Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:30 AM, at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, 925 East Main Street, Zanesville, with Fr. Stephen Ondrey as celebrant. To sign the online register book or to send a personal condolence note please visit www.hilliscombsfh.com.

Address

935 Forest Avenue
Zanesville, OH
43701

Telephone

+17404525494

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