Thomas H. Jacobs, 74, an extraordinary husband, father, grandfather, attorney, and friend died unexpectedly on Wednesday April 1, 2020 while doing what he loved, enjoying an afternoon bike ride.
He was born in St. Albans, Vermont, the son of the late Dr. Howard H. Jacobs and Margaret (Keeney) Jacobs. Tom received his early education in St. Albans, and later graduated from the University of Vermont and Suffolk Law School in Boston, MA.
Survivors include his wife Lee (Riddington) Jacobs, their daughters Tiffany Michalski of Cumberland, Rhode Island and Lindsay Snyder of Uxbridge, Massachusetts along with his son-in-laws Tom Michalski and Scott Snyder, four grandchildren Jake and Hannah Michalski & Brooke and Rylee Snyder. A brother, Dr. Lee Jacobs and his wife Deb of Acworth, Georgia, a sister-in-law Sue Jacobs of Quechee, Vermont, a brother-in-law Stan Hall of Sacramento, California, several nieces, nephews and cousins, his devoted staff, his best friend & cycling partner, Jeff Videtto and his beloved pup Benny. He was predeceased by a brother John F. Jacobs and sister-in-law Jill Hall.
In 1967 Tom married his wife Lee in St. Albans, VT. Over the past 52 years they shared the joy of family, love, and friendship with each other. Together they wholeheartedly supported each other's many adventures & endeavors.
Following their marriage they moved to Bennington where he was employed at the Union Carbide Corporation for one year. After graduating from law school they returned to the Bennington community where Tom clerked with the firm of Barber, Gilman & Morrissey. He then opened his own practice on Union Street and moved to 207 West Main in 1988 forming the firm Jacobs, McClintock, & Scanlon. The last eight years he enjoyed a "boutique" practice, Jacobs Law Offices, LLC at 204 South Street. Tom especially enjoyed his many years as legal counsel for Southwestern Vermont Health Care. He was admired and respected by many for his peaceful demeanor, listening ear and fairness.
Tom loved his profession and his community, guiding clients through their legal matters and serving on the former Bennington School Board, the Bennington Select Board, and in leadership positions on the boards of many nonprofit organizations. Tom was especially honored to be elected chairman for four of his six years of service on the Select Board. He was passionate and caring, dedicated to making Bennington a better place for all.
As an avid cyclist his most memorable adventures included riding in the L'etape du Tour in France, the Sacramento double century ride, mountain biking in Utah and biking the length of Vermont several times with friends. In earlier years he enjoyed the triathlon circuit with his family at the finish line proudly cheering him on.
Tom's family was his pride and joy. He shared his love of life in all he did with Lee, their daughters and their most prized blessings, their grandchildren. Grampy loved watching their enthusiasm, determination and will to play their sport of the season. He instilled his passion in them from riding bicycles, skiing, spinning, the Red Sox, hiking, vacationing, and making chocolate chip cookies (aka "the cookie monster"). His fun and lovable spirit will be intertwined in each of them throughout their lives - with the same spark to live life to its fullest.
Those that knew him, knew he had an admiration for cars. He loved them not to impress but for the pure joy of keeping them looking sharp and maintaining them to their truest caliber. He loved to go for drives with Lee enjoying the scenic landscape of Vermont and New England.
The Baseballism quote which hangs in Tom's office, "Live life like a 3-1 count." was what he loved and lived by.
Unfortunately, due to the Covid-19 there will not be public calling hours or funeral services.
A celebration of Tom's life will be held at a later date.
If friends desire to make contributions in memory of Thomas H. Jacobs they may be given to Southwestern Vermont Health Care Foundation or BBC (The Grow Bennington Initiative) through the office of Mahar and Son Funeral Home 628 Main St. Bennington, VT 05201.
Guest book condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net.