Diana Jacobs' Obituary
Diana Jacobs, long time resident of Tacoma, Washington, turned in her notice here on earth, and accepted a permanent position on January 1st, 2023 in the heavens, spreading joy and laughter to all. Diana is preceded in death by her beloved husband George Jacobs Sr. of 17 years, and her brothers Douglas Soward, Donald Soward, her sister Linda Brown and several other relatives. Diana is survived by her son John Jacobs, (daughter-in-law) Deborah Mclaughlin, daughter Tonya Hughes, (son-in-law) Jimmy Hughes and (granddaughters) Kiara Martin, Khloe Jacobs and Holly Hughes. In addition, her stepchildren Lois Jacobs, Mildred Baxter, Alice Lyons, Kathryn Binkley, and Cassandra Lown and many grandchildren and great grandkids. A very large blended and extended family of love.
Diana Soward was born June 19th, 1943, in the small town of Valdez, Alaska to Mabel Alice Nelson and Leo Soward Sr. She was the first of the twins born into the world, followed by her brother Douglas. Naturally a fighter since she was the first. She had nine siblings, Donald, Douglas, Jeanie, Leo, Robert, Linda, Marianne, Joanne and Carolanne.
Diana didn’t have an easy start in life, challenged by her vision impairment as a child. She possessed a positive outlook on life, with a can-do attitude. She refused to let anything hold her back, armed with determination to succeed, this would prove to carry her throughout her life.
All who knew her were quick to pick-up on her infectious smile and jovial laughter. If you were near her, once she started laughing, there was no escape. All bets were off for whomever was nearby. You could not help but laugh. Her aura was so bright, she emitted vibrant, positive energy, to others who were in her presence. She had an unmistakable smile, followed by a case of contagious laughter. A proud peacock, she spoke highly of her children to anyone that would listen, even well after they had children. Diana was a true friend of the heart. She was known for her giving nature, selfless acts of kindness and thoughtfulness. Lending a hand to those in need. She always had an open door and heart, sometimes to lend an ear to listen, at times a shoulder to cry on, or offer words of wisdom.
One of Diana’s biggest accomplishments/achievements in her life occurred in 2001. She was awarded ‘Achiever of the Year” from Goodwill Industries. Employed at the outlet, with her trusty guide dog, Sylvia by her side, she worked in the linen department sorting and pricing items. She possessed a positive attitude, determination to succeed, and welcomed the challenge. She shared her inspiration and humor with her fellow co-workers.. Due to overcoming her challenges in her life and work, and experienced hardships, including the loss of her twin brother in Vietnam, the death of husband and suffering a stroke, she was awarded “Achiever of the Year.”
She was also recognized on a national level by Goodwill Industries International. Because she made outstanding progress in overcoming barriers to employment and demonstrated significant personal growth and vocational adjustment, Diana was chosen from 181 nominees from Goodwill agencies in the United States and Canada. At the time Diana was 57 years young. Proud peacock moment.
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