Elaine M. Jacobs

With a song in our hearts, we announce the passing of Elaine Mary Jacobs on Nov. 27, 2023, following a brief illness. Elaine is survived by two adoring daughters, Carolyn Jacobs of Denville, Elizabeth Jacobs Whritenour of Caldwell and her pride and joy, grandson Brandon T. Whritenour of Hoboken and brother, James Miller (Sharyn) of Summerfield, FL. Predeceased by her husband Leo J. (2015) her siblings, brother, Charles Miller; sisters, Helen Schultheis, Maryann Miller and Betty Jane Miller.

Born Elaine Mary Miller, May 27, 1928, to parents Mary Ohman Miller and Charles Miller, Elaine grew up in Vailsburg, NJ. She graduated West Side High School in Newark, NJ, in 1946, then later met and married Leo John Jacobs in May of 1954 and enjoyed their lives in West Orange, NJ

As part of her longstanding commitment to St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in West Orange for over 65 years, Elaine was a member of the St. Joseph’s Rosary Altar Society and also served the church as a lector, choir member, organist, and taught CCD. She found deep fulfillment as a loyal spirituality and membership counselor to the Secular Augustinian Recollects. Many time-honored relationships grew from Elaine’s involvement and devotion to her church family.

Forever in motion, no grass ever grew under Elaine’s feet—literally! Always first on the dance floor and the life of the party, she LOVED her music and always had an audience! Her beloved piano, a real source of expression and soulful joy, as her playing was admired by all. A woman of so many talents, she showed her verve for life through her artistry, sewing, bowling, golf, Women’s Club, and, AKA, “Professional list-maker,” to name a few. Her attention to detail was evident, as it marked her whole career as a bookkeeper and clearly carried to her personal life.

The family of Elaine would like to thank her caregiver, treasured friends, loved ones and incredible nurses at Morristown Medical Center for all of their unwavering support. Elaine enjoyed many special times with nieces and nephews, who always brought the greatest smile to her face.

As a Mommy and Grandma, she inspired us to become the best versions of ourselves and for that, we are eternally grateful! “Let’s Eat Cake!”

The family is requesting no flowers. Donations may be made to Morristown Medical Center Inpatient Hospice. (see link below)

A memorial gathering will be held on Friday, December 15 from 10am-11am at St. Joseph’s Church, West Orange. Memorial mass will immediately follow at 11am. Arrangements are under the direction of Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home, Livingston. Burial service will be private.