William F. Jacobs

William F. Jacobs, 89, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025 at his home in Auburn following a lengthy illness. 

Born on April 29, 1936 to James C. and Elizabeth G. Jacobs, William was a life-long resident of Auburn. He attended West High School and joined the United States Marine Corps in 1954 where held the rank of Sargent. After his military service, William went on to achieve many professional accomplishments over the years. A graduate of Auburn Community College with a degree in fire science, he served the community for 25 years as a firefighter, obtaining the rank of Captain. He also held the title of fire training specialist and adjunct faculty member for the National Fire Academy. After his retirement, William did not slow down. He continued to share his knowledge through his role as a fire prevention specialist with the United States Fire Administration and as training unit leader for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). His role with FEMA sent him all over the United States when disaster struck, including New York City following the September 11th attacks and New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. William also served on Auburn’s City Council and was a member of many local organizations, including the Knights of Columbus, the Italian Heritage Society, the Cayuga County Alumni Association, the Elks Lodge, Cayuga Museum of History and Art, and the Marine Corps League among several others. He was an active member of St. Mary’s Church, serving as eucharistic minister and a pasta dinner volunteer. 

William is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 68 years, Marlene (Vivenzio) Jacobs; three children: Elizabeth (Mark) DeTomaso of Auburn, James (Daisy) Jacobs of Florida, and Anne (Christopher)Beavers of Syracuse; five grandchildren: Nicole (Kevin) Hoey, William (Jazmen) DeTomaso, Robert (Holloway) Jacobs, Gabrielle Beavers, and Jacob Beavers; and four great-grandchildren: Dominic and Meilani DeTomaso and Stella and Maverick Hoey. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Robert and James Jacobs. 

We wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the home care staff who quickly became angels to our family and Billy Mitchell, a dear neighbor who is always there whenever needed. 

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025 from 2:00-4:00 pm and 7:00-9:00 pm at Brew Funeral Home on South Street in Auburn. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 1:00 pm at St. Alphonsus Church in Auburn followed by interment with full military honors at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. 

Donations may be made to Auburn Permanent Firefighters Benevolent Association, Hospice of the Finger Lakes, and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. 

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