Jim Jacobs

James O’Neal (Jim) Jacobs, longtime resident of Forney, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2024, at his home with his family at his side. Jim was born April 15, 1947, in Dallas, TX to James Edward and Hazel Marie Jacobs and upon entering Heaven, Jim was gladly welcomed by his Lord and Savior, whom he served so faithfully and his parents along with his sister, Cindy Richards. Upon meeting Jim, every person immediately knew three things: he loved the Lord, he loved his family, and he loved his country. Jim had a servant’s heart, a leader’s mindset and unwavering beliefs and principles. Throughout his life he was called to serve in various capacities. As a young man, he enlisted in the Army where he served with honor and distinction in Vietnam. Jim was awarded the Bronze Star, numerous infantry and armory medals, and most notably, a Purple Heart. When asked about his time in Vietnam, Jim did not gush about his awards, rather he remembered those who fought alongside him and suffered more greatly than he did. After the war, Jim returned home, completed his college degree at UNT and began his career in the insurance industry. Jim’s walk with God started at a young age. While leading a devotional to his fellow youth group, the then 16-year-old met a beautiful visitor, named Linda. Jim and Linda had an instant connection, their friendship quickly blossomed into love and on March 16, 1968, they were married in Dallas. In 1969, Jim and Linda moved to Forney where they soon immersed themselves in the community and joined First Baptist Church of Forney. Once again, Jim heeded the call to serve. With Linda by his side, they began establishing relationships with local youth ultimately generating two new classes to serve youth and young couples. Their commitment to ensuring young people had a firm foundation in the love of Jesus had lasting impacts. Several of their “students” over the years shared testimony and stories of just how impactful that time was in their lives. In 1975 Jim was ordained as a Deacon at First Baptist Forney where he continue to serve the Lord at the church he loved. Jim’s call to civic responsibility afforded him ample opportunity to serve the community he loved. He was elected to the Forney ISD School Board for over 25 years holding many offices, including President, as the Board navigated the education needs of a growing suburban town. Jim also served on the City of Forney Planning and Zoning, was appointed to the Kaufman County Appraisal District and the Kaufman County Veteran Board. Jim was also very active in the American Legion Post #591where he served in many positions with commander being the latest until his health required him to resign. When there was spare time, he enjoyed spending time with family friends, fast cars and Harleys. In 1970, Jim began a longtime passion for restoring cars with his first being a 1952 MG TD and then he moved onto several other cars known for their unique beauty and speed. He loved racing his red Shelby Cobra and his blue Shelby Daytona. When asked which car was his favorite, Jim smiled his signature smile and said, “The Harley!” He truly enjoyed the craftsmanship and instant recognizability of the Harley-Davidson bikes and every ride became a treasured memory. A loving husband, devoted dad, cherished Papa and treasured uncle, mentor and friend, Jim’s gift of love and service to others will be the legacy carried on by everyone who knew him. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Jacobs; his son, Matthew Jacobs and wife, Erin; daughter, Bonnie Vinson and husband, Keith; grandchildren: Allie Jacobs, Alec Vinson, Gracie Vinson, Campbell Palmertree and Cy Jacobs; siblings: Laura Delk and husband, Joe; Ruth Law and husband, Joe Don; Velma Byford and husband, Eugene; brother-in-law, Mike Belew as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family, church family and countless friends, each of whom will greatly miss Jim. A Celebration of his life will be at 11:00am, Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Forney, in the Forum with his family receiving friends beginning at 10:00 am to service time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Clay Jones Legacy Foundation which was close to Jim’s heart at https://pages.donately.com/clayjoneslegacyfoundation/campaigns

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Jim Jacobs

April 15, 1947 - July 27, 2024