Our History

GOING BACK IN TIME

Our History

The McCombs Tradition

1906–1942 | Our Beginnings

The McCombs tradition began in 1906, when J. W. McCombs, Jr. established the business in historic uptown Jackson, Missouri. Mr. McCombs and his wife, Emma, operated the firm together, building a reputation for compassionate service and trusted care within the community.

In 1929, Mr. McCombs and several local partners incorporated the business as McCombs Furniture and Undertaking, continuing operations on South High Street in Jackson.

By 1942, the funeral service portion of the business had grown significantly, and the funeral home relocated to the former Presbyterian church parsonage on North High Street. The home was remodeled to serve as a dedicated funeral parlor for local families.

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1972–1976 | Growth and Expansion

In 1972, under the leadership of Perry and Margie Grindstaff, Elmer and Elvira Best, and Bruce and Donna Dockins, the firm entered a new era of growth with the opening of a newly constructed funeral home on West Independence Street in Jackson.

In 1976, the furniture business was sold so the company could focus exclusively on funeral service. At that time, the corporate name was officially changed to McCombs Funeral Home, Inc.

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1987–1995 | Expanding to Cape Girardeau

Following the retirement of Perry Grindstaff in 1987, Bruce and Donna Dockins continued leading the funeral home as the firm steadily grew.

Recognizing the need for expanded services in nearby communities, plans were developed for a second location in Cape Girardeau, just fifteen minutes from Jackson. Construction began in January 1995, and on October 28, 1995, McCombs Funeral Home proudly opened its Cape Girardeau location.

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2000–Present | Continuing the Legacy

Today, McCombs Funeral Home continues its long-standing tradition of compassionate service. Our experienced staff of licensed funeral directors and embalmers remains dedicated to helping families navigate loss with dignity, care, and professionalism.

For more than a century, families throughout Jackson, Cape Girardeau, and Southeast Missouri have trusted McCombs Funeral Home to help them honor life, celebrate memories, and support loved ones through every stage of the journey.