Obituary of Leo Jacobs

Jacobs, Major Leo “Jake”, 83 of Spring Hill, Florida passed away on Sunday, February 3, 2019.  Jake was a Lumbee Indian born in Philadelphia, North Carolina.  He spent his formative years in Pembroke N.C., Kinston N.C., and Richmond VA. At the age of 19 he started what would be a long military career by enlisting with the United States Air National Guard, he then attended Nav school, and ultimately pursued his passion for flying with the United States Airforce as a “jet jock”, fighter pilot.  After flying the second most tours in Vietnam, his Squadron Cpt. flew the most, and receiving several medals for distinguished service, Jake retired but his service to his community did not end.  Jake spent many years participating and being on several Board of Directors, including: Citizen Advisory Board for Oak Hill Hospital, Hernando County FL Corps Advisory Board for the Salvation Army, Hernando County Sheriffs ‘YES’ Program, he was an active member of the DAV, and there were numerous other charities he supported. Jake was also a Fire Commissioner for Hernando County for 7 years and a Kentucky Colonel. He also was a proud graduate from University of Tampa. He put his ‘gift of gab’ to good use in his civilian career as a salesman- working with companies selling protective gear, always concerned for putting the safety of those using the gear first. Jake was always a ‘man of his word’. Jake was a member of First United Methodist Church of Spring Hill and was a Lay Minister. Jake had an unmistakable baritone voice, he was an amazing storyteller and loved to sing- even performing at the Virginia Museum at the age of 18.  In retirement he enjoyed visiting with family, shopping with his grandson, traveling, reading his Bible, working out, feeding the squirrels and birds, and was known as a car enthusiast.  Jake loved going to Fred’s with his grandsons, Cracker Barrel- where he loved to share the story of a Lumbee Lowry family member being one of the founders, and the local ice cream parlor, Clyde’s.  Although he was very proud to have served his country, Jakes’ greatest joy in life was being a Dad and a Papa.  

He is preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Rosana Boyette; brothers, Ogene Jacobs and Hudell Jacobs; sisters, Sallie Mae “Jacobs” Goins and Marie “Jacobs” Young.  Jake is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Diana; daughter, Tracy Lea Jacobs (Matt); son, John Trevor Jacobs (Sharon); grandsons, Jacob McGovern and Johnny Lee Kennedy McGovern; grandchildren also include “Little” Trevor, Mikey, Nicole, & Kerri (Danny & their children); there are  many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins who also shared a place in this amazing man’s heart. 

A Celebration of Life will take place at 2:00pm on Sunday, February 10, 2019 at First United Methodist Church of Spring Hill at 9344 Spring Hill Drive.  The family will receive friends one hour prior. Please, in lieu of flowers, in honor of Leo’s life, donations could be made to either the Salvation Army or St. Jude’s.

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