CLAYTON, NY — James C. Jacobs, 91, Watertown and formerly of Clayton passed away Friday evening, Oct. 7, 2022, at Upstate Medical Center, Syracuse.
James was born July 12, 1931, in Auburn, a son of James C. and Elizabeth Hutchinson Jacobs. He was a graduate of Auburn East High School and attended Auburn Community College for one year.
He then entered the US Marine Corps in 1951, serving actively for two years, which included Korea and remained in the Active Reserves. He was reactivated for Desert Storm, serving in Saudi Arabia. He retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 from the Reserves in 1991. He received numerous awards including the Navy Achievement Medal and Navy Commendation Medals while in the Marines.
On June 1, 1985, he married Brenda Law Holly at Hermon Methodist Church.
A previous marriage ended in divorce.
James worked 31 years for NY Telephone Co. from 1954 to 1985 and retired as line foreman. He was a life member of the Marine Corps Reserve Officer’s Association. The Marines and his grandchildren were his life.
Along with his wife, Brenda, he is survived by one son, James C. Jacobs, Skaneateles; three daughters, Cynthia Jacobs, Skaneateles, Barbara (Doug) Myers, NC, and Jennifer (Jeff) Nix, Atlanta, GA; three step sons, Larry Holly, Norwood, Gary (Marika) Holly, NC, and Mark (Sandra) Holly, NC; one step daughter, Donna (Michael) Casselman, Clayton; twelve grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren; one brother, William (Marlene) Jacobs, Auburn; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Along with his parents, James was predeceased by a brother, Robert.
A celebration of James’ life will be held noon Saturday, Oct. 29, at Clayton American Legion Post 821.
Arrangements are entrusted with Cummings Funeral Service, Inc., Clayton and
online condolences to his family may be posted at www.cummingsfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to the Clayton American Legion Colon-Couch Post 821, 518 Riverside Dr., Clayton, NY 13624.