of Little Rock, AR
April 5, 1933 - June 6, 2021
Joan (Jo) Gillum Jacobs(88) of Little Rock died peacefully at her home on Sunday, June 6, 2021. She was born in Plainview, Arkansas, on April 5, 1933, to the late Franz and Grace Gillum. She grew up in Conway, Arkansas, and graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in 1953. She married the love of her life, the late James P. Jacobs, in 1956. They resided in Richmond, Virginia, until moving back to Arkansas in 2002.
Jo loved children and devoted her life to early childhood development. She was the happiest when surrounded by them, whether it was her time as director of a preschool in Richmond, teaching Sunday School, keeping the grandkids, or having tea parties with the neighborhood children. She was devoted to her faith and dedicated to loving and caring for her family and others.
She is survived by her two daughters, LeAnn Jacobs of Richmond, VA, and Caryl Watson (David) of Little Rock, AR; nine grandchildren, Justin, Coleman, Dillon, and Garrison Mulligan as well as Hannah Clark (Michael), Jacob (Jordan) Watson, Ella, Mariah, and Makayla Watson; two great-grandchildren, Isaiah and Maeve Clark; and a host of nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, in the chapel of Pulaski Heights Methodist Church at 3:00 pm. The family would like to thank House of Three and Hospice Home Care for their love and compassion.
Services provided by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home.
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7 Condolence(s)
Tammy Olson
Wednesday, June 9, 2021
Goodbye my lovely friend and neighbor. You were truly one of a kind! I'm happy that you're finally reunited with the love of your life. Rest in peace and I'll miss you always!
Dana Brown
Wednesday, June 9, 2021
I'm so sorry to hear about Aunt Jo. We truly loved visiting with her and hearing her stories. She was so funny and loved talking to everyone. I will always remember how much she adored being around children and seeing them learn and play. Heaven gained a true angel and I know she is happy to be reunited with Uncle Jimmy again.
Tom DuPlessis
Tuesday, June 8, 2021
I fondly recall our family visits to the Jacob’s in the ‘60s and 70’s. She had such a warm and contagious smile and laugh. She was joyful. I know my late mother treasured her.
Anne Darrouzet
Monday, June 7, 2021
Jo was my mother Caryl DuPlessis’ best friend beginning in Richmond, Virginia in the 1950s. I learned so much from her about how you treat and care for your friends. My mother treasured their friendship until her death in 1990. I was fortunate to keep in touch with her afterwards and to witness her kindness, humor and grace. I will miss her deeply.
Jim & Lynne Davis
Monday, June 7, 2021
We loved our Aunt Jo! She was so beautiful. An extraordinary soul who has now been reunited with Uncle Jimmy, truly the love of her life. She was so caring; made others feel loved & with such a zest for life! Such a delight to be in her presence. Our admiration for her is endless.
LeAnn Jacobs
Monday, June 7, 2021
I won' t be able to attend the funeral because I have problems with pain from knee surgery and other issues ..It breaks my heart that I haven't been able to help you with anything Caryl .. But you shine like Christ and you haven't complained .. Mom is finally joined with Jesus and our Dad .. She missed him so much
Braun Campbell
Monday, June 7, 2021
LeAnn, Caryl, and all the Watson and Mulligan "grands",
Your mother and grandmother possessed an infectious love and zest for life and learning that we Campbells will carry in our hearts and lives forever. Our lives are richer because we lived across the street in Richmond, and we had many grand tea parties that enriched us. I know heaven and Jim are rejoicing as they welcome her home. Please know that we carry you all in our hearts and prayers in your sorrow and pray God's grace not only comforts you but helps you embrace all the good memories of her joy, life and deep love for you all.
Braun, John, Jay, Kate and Ben Campbell