Bennie Ruth Jacobs

Bennie Ruth Jacobs, born on July 16, 1932, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, peacefully passed away on March 4, 2024, at 3:02 a.m. Bennie was the beloved second child of Joseph and Daisy Smith, growing up with nine siblings. In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, her parents and an older sibling moved to Los Angeles as part of the exodus of African Americans heading west during the Great Migration. At four years old, she reunited with her family in Los Angeles, and they resettled in Bakersfield, California in 1949.

After graduating from Kern County Union High School (now Bakersfield High School), Bennie married the love of her life, Theatris Lester Jacobs, on July 5, 1951. Together, they built a life filled with love and joy, blessed with five children. Their union endured almost 59 years until Theatris' passing.

Bennie's professional journey began with her graduation from the International Beauty School in 1951. For over 43 years, she dedicated herself to the art of beauty as a skilled beautician. However, in 1993, inspired by Isaiah 45:3, Bennie transitioned to establish Tabitha’s House Ministries—a Christian-based rehabilitation center dedicated to helping those facing homelessness, alcoholism, and drug abuse. Guided by the mission to break the generational cycle of substance abuse, Bennie's selfless work aimed to transform lives, making individuals contributing members of society.

Bennie's motivation for this noble endeavor stemmed from her deep compassion for the hurting in her community. As she explained, "I saw a need in my neighborhood. The Lord told me to open up this home to help people’s children and reach out to those who are hurting." Her legacy extended over 40 years, impacting the lives of many, including ministering to female prisoners in the 1980s and feeding the homeless.

Beyond her charitable work, Bennie pursued numerous hobbies and interests, including sewing, crocheting, singing, Women’s Aglow Bible Study and active participation in various organizations. Her deep love and belief in Jesus Christ were evident throughout her life, having been raised in the Pentecostal church and later attending the Church of Christ after marriage. At the time of her passing, she was a cherished member of the Praise Center in Bakersfield.

Left to mourn her passing are her children: Felicia Scott, Gregory Jacobs, Keith Jacobs, Ronald Jacobs and Denise Tucker. Bennie also leaves to mourn two son-in-laws and three daughter-in-laws: Melvin Scott, Jr., husband of Felicia Scott; Nathan Tucker, husband of Denise Tucker; Rachelle Randall, fiancé of Gregory Jacobs; Basilia Jacobs, wife of Keith Jacobs; and Antoinette Jacobs, wife of Ronald Jacobs. Siblings Thomas Smith, Daisy Fuqua, Shirley King and Phillip Smith.

Bennie leaves behind ten loving grandchildren: Treye Scott; Gregory Jacobs, Jr. (Karen) and his mother Betty Tibbs; Ryan Jacobs (Jasmin); Lauren Barker (Cameron) and their mother Elaine Jacobs; Janae Cannon (Marquis); Tabitha Bailey (Craig); Brea Holthe (Jared); Briana Tucker; Cori Price (Alton); and Paige Tucker. She also leaves to mourn fourteen great-grandchildren: Alyssa, Joshua, Kaiyah, Isyss, Gregory, Mali, Luke, Zoë, Hudson, Levi, Nile, Jade, Niya and Charlee. Two very special nieces and their husbands: Ollie and Regina Scott; Keith and Caren Reynolds and their children; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Bennie is preceded in death by her father, Joseph Smith; mother, Daisy Smith; husband, Theatris L. Jacobs; brothers, Lewis Smith, Lindsay Smith and Arthur Smith; and sister, Josephine Taylor.

Psalm 91, one of Bennie's favorite scriptures, beautifully resonates with her life: "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." Bennie's unwavering faith, determination, grace, and kindness have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we mourn her loss, we can find solace in her favorite song, “Lily of the Valley,” which implores us to rely on God for comfort as the supplier of all our needs. We will cherish and continue to live out her legacy of agape love and resilience she leaves behind, knowing she is now resting peacefully in the arms of the Lord.

May she rest in eternal peace.

A memorial service to celebrate Bennie's life will be held on Saturday March 16, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Discovery Church, 7103 White Ln. Bakersfield, CA 93309. Following the memorial service, a graveside service will be held from 12:30 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. at Union Cemetery, 730 Potomac Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93307. Additionally, we invite you to join us for the repast, which will start at 1:30 p.m. at the Junior League of Bakersfield Community Center, located at 1928 19th St., Bakersfield, CA 93301.

Acknowledgements

We extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Newton Phuong and the dedicated staff at Heart Vascular and Leg Center, along with Dr. Caleb Thompson and his team, for their exceptional medical care. Special thanks to the staff at Kern River Transitional Care for their remarkable assistance. Heartfelt appreciation goes to Anastasia Moore and Chevon Clair for their exceptional caregiving during Bennie’s final months. We would like to acknowledge the unwavering dedication and love shown to our Mom by her eldest grandson, Treye Scott. Your compassion and unwavering dedication had a profound impact, provided immense comfort and support during this challenging time. Words cannot adequately convey the depth of our gratitude for your kindness. Thank you for your faithful friendship, consistent concern, and heartfelt prayers. May the Lord, Jesus Christ, uplift your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

The Family of Bennie Ruth Jacobs