Journalist Sandra “Sam” L. Combs, a former Oakland Press staff writer, died on Oct. 23 in Jonesboro, Arkansas. She was 69. The Orlando, Fla., native earned multiple degrees and taught at several universities before retiring in April from Arkansas State University.

The National Association of Black Journalists announced her death on Oct. 24, calling her a dedicated storyteller, educator and mentor, who embodied the spirit of excellence, service and community. She was an NABJ Region III Achiever recipient.

She worked at The Oakland Press from 1978 to 1997 and was a former Rochester Hills resident.

Former Oakland Press colleague Joe Grimm, whose career included writing and then recruiting for the Detroit Free Press recalled working with her in Pontiac during their early-journalism days. He

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