Thelma Jean Spencer Combs

Thelma Jean Spencer Combs, age 84, a woman whose vibrant spirit and unwavering zest for life left an indelible mark on all who knew her, passed away peacefully on Monday May 25, 2026, at Schneck Medical Center, surrounded by her beloved family. Born on June 25, 1941, in Partridge, Kentucky, Thelma’s life was a tapestry woven with warmth, humor, and a deep love for those around her.

Thelma was a longtime former member of New Providence Baptist Church in Austin, Indiana, and a current member of Safe Harbor Church where her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Known for her witty and mischievous nature, she had a remarkable ability to light up any room. A people person through and through, her strong will and infectious love of life inspired many.

Her career as a waitress was more than a job—it was a passion. She thrived on serving and meeting new faces, treating every customer with care that reflected her big heart. But beyond work, Thelma’s true delights often found expression in dance and artistry. She cherished dancing with her late brother Arthur, spinning to the sounds of 50’s music at the "sock hop," her favorite poodle skirt swirling with every step. These joyful moments are fondly remembered and bring smiles to the family as they envision Thelma and Arthur dancing once again, reunited in heaven.

Thelma’s creativity radiated in every corner of her life. A talented decorator with an eye for style and color, she savored yard sales, delighted in collecting dolls, and found pure joy in making ceramics—most notably crafting a cherished tea set for her boys. Her artistic touch was a gift she freely shared, an extension of her nurturing soul.

Her journey was one filled with deep bonds: beloved son Rickey Julian and his wife Shannon of Seymour, Indiana; son Randy Julian and his wife Kristie of Scottsburg, Indiana; brothers James Spencer and his wife Jane of Scottsburg, and Bobby Spencer and his wife Opal of Scottsburg; four adored grandchildren—Ben Julian, Holli Williams, Clinton Julian, and Kaytlyn Julian; and one treasured great-grandchild, Verian Snell, who carried forward her legacy of love and laughter.

Thelma was preceded in death by her father Everett Spencer and mother Ada Pritchard Spencer; her husbands, Arthur Julian, father of her children, with whom she shared 30 years of marriage, and Benny “Sunny” Combs, her beloved husband of 23 years. She also mourned the loss of dear siblings Arthur Spencer, Dale Spencer, sisters Beulah Campbell and Bethel Willoughby, and sister-in-law Edna Spencer and brother in law, Bill Campbell.

Friends and family are invited to honor Thelma’s life with visitation on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 11:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM both held at Christensen Family Funeral Home, 311 Holiday Square Road, Seymour, Indiana. She will be laid to rest at New Providence Cemetery in Austin, Indiana immediately following. 

In remembering Thelma Jean Spencer Combs, one cannot help but be struck by a life fully lived—one colored by laughter, passion, and an unyielding zest for every moment. Her memory dances vividly in the hearts of those she leaves behind, a timeless ember of love and light that will forever glow.

Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com.

Daniel and Betsy Christensen have been entrusted with the arrangements.