Rhonda Gay Darst (Combs)

Rhonda Gay Darst (Combs), born on June 18, 1968, in Arcata, California, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Sisters, Oregon, on December 2, 2024.

She was the beloved daughter of Mike and Carol Combs. A devoted mother, wife, grandmother — affectionately known as “Honey” — sister, and friend. Rhonda touched countless lives with her giving heart and unwavering kindness. She graduated from St. Bernard’s High School in 1986. She married the love of her life, Donny Darst, in July 1991. Together, they built a life full of love and purpose.

Rhonda was the proud owner of Country Living Salon in Arcata, California, where she shared her talent and passion for hairstyling. After moving to Harrisburg, Oregon, in 2003, she continued styling hair for several years before pursuing her true calling: caring for children. Rhonda provided childcare in her home for many families before dedicating herself to foster care. Over the years, she and Donny fostered around twelve children and adopted three of them into their loving family.

In 2010, Rhonda and her family moved to Sisters, where she became a cherished member of the community. She worked part time at an antique shop and found joy in gardening, camping, hosting gatherings, and most of all, spending time with her family and friends.

Rhonda is survived by her husband Donny; her children Carley (Travis), Clayton (Teylor), Cody (Thomas), David, Lainne, and Sadiee; and her grandchildren Emmett, Hudson, Adysen, Ayden, Cohen, and Silas; her mother Carol Combs; her siblings Treg (Maryann), Troy (Penny), Shelley (Brian); mother and father-in-law Don and Barbara Darst; and many more treasured family members and dear friends. Preceded in death by her father Mike Combs and grandmother Lois James. Her legacy of love and generosity will live on through them and the many lives she touched.

Rhonda will be remembered for her selflessness and her ability to bring warmth to everyone she met. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.

Details regarding services (Sisters) will be shared at a later date.