Jean Iris Jacobs

  Jean Iris Jacobs (Austin) walked into the arms of her waiting Lord and Savior on May 28, 2025, at the age of 95. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Francis (Jake/Bob) R. Jacobs; her parents, Carlton and Florence Austin; her sisters, Marie and Lora, and her brother, James Austin. She is already deeply missed and will be lovingly remembered by her four children and their spouses: Carlton Jacobs, Carol (and Robert) Vernay, Christine Jacobs, and Cathleen (and Marlin) Tures; as well as her ten grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren.

 Jean was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She graduated from Wyoming Park High School and went on to study nursing at the Butterworth Hospital School of Nursing. It was there, while caring for a handsome man from California who had requested a nurse who knew how to play cribbage, that she met the love of her life. They married and shared a full and wonderful life together. In 1952, Jean and Jake moved to California, where they raised their family of four while actively participating in their church and community. They were devoted Dodger fans, holding season tickets for many years and never missing a game on TV. The voice of Vin Scully saying, “It’s time for Dodger baseball,” was a constant presence in their home. They traveled extensively across the United States, creating cherished memories and adventures with their children and grandchildren.

 Jean is remembered by her family as being caring, selfless, resilient, devoted, compassionate, nurturing, steadfast, loyal, their biggest fan, always present in the moment, an amazing listener, loving, a quiet strong spirit, a crossword wizard, and a diamond among mothers and grandmothers. She loved the Lord and lived a life of faith, contentment, and gratitude. Jean worked for many years as an office manager for a busy OB/GYN practice in Arcadia, California. She was among the first - if not the first - to teach the Lamaze birthing method in the San Gabriel Valley. As an avid reader, she was always eager to share a good book. Jean had a joyful spirit, made friends easily, and kept up with current events by reading the Los Angeles Times daily. She engaged in meaningful conversations with people from all walks of life, always valuing every individual she met. The highlight of Jean’s life was spending time with her family and friends. She was an incredible example to all who knew her and will remain in our hearts forever. 

A memorial service and interment will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Rosedale Memorial Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan.