Obituaries
Elizabeth Hart Jacobs, 70
May 4, 1954 - May 04, 2024
Elizabeth (“Libby”) Hart Jacobs, 70, died May 4, 2024 in hospice care at Mount Joy, PA after a courageous 7-month struggle with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer that she memorably labeled “the uninvited guest.” Her loving and admiring husband of 46 years, Kenneth L. Jacobs, survives her.
Elizabeth was born in Elkhart, IN on May 4, 1954, and raised by parents Richard Hart (who died in 1976) and Jeanette Hart (who died in 2021). Elizabeth attended the American School of Manila, Philippines (where her father served as an administrator in the late1960’s), Elkhart High School, the University of Madrid, and Purdue University (B.A., 1977). Elizabeth’s older sister, Barbara Hart Snell (of Three Rivers, MI) also survives her.
Elizabeth was employed as a bilingual (Spanish) teacher in Indiana, Iowa, and Michigan, assisting Ken during law school and his early career. But she understood her most significant role as a devoted and involved mother of children Rachel and Rebecca, actively participating in their education by volunteering at their schools and home-schooling them while bringing the family on Ken’s lengthy business trips abroad. Rachel is now a clinical child psychologist (husband Aron) in Bridgman, MI, and Rebecca is a nurse practitioner (husband Michael; children Elizabeth, Catherine, and Isaac) in the Chicago area. Elizabeth saw them all as her life’s greatest achievement and source of pride.
Elizabeth also will be remembered for her deep love of God, the Holy Scriptures, and the hymns of the faith, as well as her passion for foreign languages and world cultures. Raised in the Disciples of Christ denomination, she became active in various churches in the areas of global missions, small group spiritual formation, and (as a Presbyterian deacon) ministry to the homebound. Described by a close friend as a “missionary without portfolio,” she made 14 relief trips to Mexico, Central and South America, which included Spanish translation duties.
Late in life she took up the French language, studying at Millersville University and traveling often to France and Quebec.
Elizabeth devoted herself to women’s charitable, patriotic, and historical societies, including the Junior League, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Daughters of 1812, and Daughters of the American Colonists (DAC). She often led projects to honor and assist current U.S. military veterans, whose patriotism and service she greatly admired.
A descendant of sheep farmers, Elizabeth enthusiastically supported the Farm Restoration Project of the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum, Lancaster. Thanks to her recent efforts, the farm now features the live sights and sounds of sheep along with other farm animals.
Elizabeth’s funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 8 at 11 AM at the Lancaster Church of the Brethren, 1601 Sunset Ave., Lancaster, with the Rev. Misty Wintsch and Matthew Kramer officiating. A luncheon will be held at the church immediately following the service. Private interment will take place at Rice Cemetery in Elkhart, IN.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Elizabeth’s memory may be made to Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601.
Leave a condolence on this Memorial Page
Condolences to the Family
January 02, 2025
To the Jacob’s Family.
We are sorry to hear of Elizabeth’s passing. We knew her for many years as she frequently visited our frame shop. Everything she framed was so meaningful to her and she always took great care in preserving the memories. We especially loved her thoughtful nature always sending us a note of appreciation, and that she had great respect for the military and history. We will miss her smiling face and positive energy. What a beautiful soul. God bless.
Andy and Kristie McGinty
August 26, 2024
Barbara just told me of Libby’s passing. I am so sorry.Sounds like she grew up to be a wonderful adult .She was my wonderful best childhood friend
We lived across the street from each other on Meisner.We had so many firsts together. Prayers for all.
Karen Bowman
May 19, 2024
Hi Ken and Family,
I regret very much that I was unable to attend the service for Elizabeth. As you know she was a very bright and loving person. Knowing both of you has enriched my life. I included her in an internatioonal book chapter that I wrote. I fully share your loss as I was touched by her.
Tim Kauffman
May 08, 2024
Ken
Over the years Linda & I enjoyed visits from Libby as she researched Hart family history, visited cemeteries & worked to complete applications for patriotic organizations. It was my pleasure to be her tour guide & to share family stories. As we sat around the kitchen table we shared many things including our faith in God. Now Libby is enjoying that “great cloud of witnesses” that she as so curious about. Bob & Linda Wilder
May 08, 2024
Heartfelt condolences on the passing of Elizabeth. Her genuine nature and dedication to history will be treasured by Donegal Witness Tree DAR Chapter ladies. She was an avid parade participant, always dressed in authentic period attire. She was a classey lady of true culture. I am thankful for the times she spent with my mother through the years. Together they are both free from pain. Peace be with her husband, daughters and their families.
Suzanne Landis
May 08, 2024
What a wonderful memorial service, that was for Libby! I especially appreciated your tribute to her, Ken. Rachel and Rebecca also honored their mother very much
PAUL & LISA BUCKWALTER
May 08, 2024
Ken and Family,
We are saddened by Elizabeth’s passing but know she is no longer in pain and with her Lord and Saviour. We will miss her engaging conversations and her friendship. Her love of learning and genuine interest in others will always be remembered. Our conversations of the farm and anything Indiana will be sorely missed.
May God’s comfort surround you all at this time,
Linda and Jerry Berger
May 07, 2024
Tis a Fearful Thing. ‘Tis a fearful thingto love what death can touch.A fearful thingto love, to hope, to dream, to be –to be,And oh, to lose.A thing for fools, this,And a holy thing,a holy thingto love.For your life has lived in me,your laugh once lifted me,your word was gift to me.To remember this brings painful joy.‘Tis a human thing, love,a holy thing, to lovewhat death has touched.”
― Judah Halevi
May 07, 2024
We are saddened by the loss of our neighbor and send deepest sympathy to her family. Unable to attend her service, we’ll be there in spirit. Jack and Pat Richards
May 06, 2024
Ken, Time and distance has a way of eroding relationships among cousins and sadly, this applies to us. I just learned of Libby’s passing and reach out to you from across the miles and decades offering my heartfelt condolences. With sadness … Dan Rohlfing (cousin)
May 06, 2024
Elizabeth brightened and lightened every space she entered. Her presence always felt like a gift. Her death brings such sadness to all who were privileged to know her. She will be greatly missed. May she rest in peace.
Linda Ecker
May 06, 2024
Dear Jacobs family,
Elizabeth was my PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization) sister. I remember her “forever” smile, never an unkind or harsh word about anyone, always dwelling on the positives, interested in each person’s life and desire to help others. She will be missed and remembered by so many. She always spoke so fondly and lovingly of her family.
Love , Blessings and prayers. Shirley R, PEO sister
May 05, 2024
I am speechless. I knew Elizabeth through a mutual organization. I admired her and loved her very much. Please accept my condolences while a grieve with you. I am certain that she is being held gently in Jesus arms.
Sandy B.
May 05, 2024
Ken, I just saw the announcement of Libby’s untimely death. I am so sorry that she and you had to deal with that terrible disease, especially at such a relatively young age. I hope that your family takes solace in her faith that she is with God now. God bless you.
Steve Senkowski
May 04, 2024
Elizabeth was a kindred spirit. she will forever hold a place in my heart..Our spirits will continue to enjoy reading The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy. My forever friend.
Marel Kenny
- Services
- Wednesday, May 08, 2024
- 11:00 AM
- Lancaster Church of the Brethren
- 1601 Sunset Ave
- Lancaster, PA 17601
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions >
