"Gift of the Valley" Honors the Late Donald R. DesCombes, Long-Time Supporter and Board Member

It’s so very fitting that we honor and remember Donald R. DesCombes, who tirelessly devoted many years of his life to serving Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center, with the Hospital’s new mural, “Gift of the Valley” – because he was indeed a gift to our organization.

We are deeply grateful to Elizabeth “Betty” DesCombes and her children, who underwrote the artwork and installation, in memory of her late husband and longtime PVHMC board member. Donald and his wife’s contributions to the Hospital were a family affair – Betty served on the PVHMC Foundation board for 11 years, from 2007-2017, and was elected as an emeritus to the board this year.

It was a privilege to stand with Betty and unveil the dedication plaque for this beautiful mural that complements the work of the City of Pomona’s Cultural Arts Commission to bring more public art to the community. Patients, their families, Hospital visitors and all who pass by can enjoy this artwork for many years to come.

The “Gift of the Valley,” painted by notable artist Tony Sheets, depicts large golden oranges, blossoms and leaves, inspired by the citrus industry that defines the origins of this region of Los Angeles County. Sheets is not only a well-known painter in the Claremont artist community of Southern California with a notable career, but he has strong connections with PVHMC as well, with two of his children being born at the hospital.