Gregory Lester Jacobs, affectionately known as Greg, passed away peacefully on June
6, 2026, in Bakersfield, California, at the age of 72.

Born on November 4, 1953, in Bakersfield, California, Greg was the beloved son of
Theatris Lester Jacobs and Bennie Ruth Jacobs. Raised in Bakersfield, he developed a
strong sense of faith, family, and hard work that would guide him throughout his life. 
He attended McKinley Elementary School, Emerson Junior High School, and Bakersfield
High School, where he was a Driller and played football. He took after his father, T.L.,
who had been a standout running back at BHS. Greg had real talent on the field, but he
never liked to hit his friends—he didn't want to hurt anyone—and so his playing days
were short-lived, a small story his family still remembers as pure Greg. He later
continued his education at Southwestern Christian College in Terrell, Texas.

As a young man, Greg worked alongside his father, Theatris, his brothers Ronnie and
Keith, his nephew Treye, and his sons, Greg Jr. and Ryan, on the family farm. There he
learned the value of perseverance and dedication—qualities that would become
hallmarks of his character.

After leaving the family farm, Greg began a long and successful career with Tosco Oil
Refinery in Bakersfield. Through hard work and leadership, he advanced to the position
of lead supervisor and later transferred to Martinez, California, where he continued his
career for many years. After returning to Bakersfield, he worked as a landscaper and
caretaker, finding fulfillment in serving others and staying active within his community.

Throughout his life, Greg was blessed to share meaningful relationships that helped
shape the family legacy he cherished so deeply. He was first married to Betty Davidson
Tibbs, and together they welcomed their son, Gregory Lester Jacobs, Jr. Later, Greg
married Elaine Groves Jacobs; during their 18 years of marriage, they made their home
in Benicia, California, and were blessed with two children, Ryan Elliot Jacobs and
Lauren Ruth Barker. After returning to Bakersfield, Greg married Theresa Jacobs, who
later preceded him in death. In the later years of his life, Greg shared love and
companionship with his fiancée, Rachelle Randall, who remained faithfully by his side.
A devoted Christian, Greg lived his life guided by faith and service. One of the causes
closest to his heart was Tabitha's House, a rehabilitation center for women and children
founded and operated by his mother, Bennie Ruth Jacobs. The ministry provided an
alternative path for women and families seeking restoration, healing, and hope. Greg
faithfully supported and furthered his mother's mission through countless hours of
service. His willingness to help others left a lasting impact on the many lives 
touched by Tabitha's House.

Greg's greatest joy was his family. He loved gathering with those he loved, cooking
barbecue, sharing stories, and cheering on his beloved Los Angeles Lakers and
Raiders. He also had a gift for keeping his siblings laughing—and on their
toes—through what he lovingly called "capping sessions," good-natured teasing in
which no one was spared. He had a nickname for each of them: Felicia was "Tank,"
Keith was "Bucky Beaver" (or "Buck" for short), Ronnie was "Womp," and Denise was
"Brady Bunch." Within the family, Greg had a nickname of his own, too—to them, he
was "Woods." His generosity, sense of humor, and willingness to help others made him
a friend to many and a blessing to all who knew him.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving fiancée, Rachelle Randall; his children,
Gregory Lester Jacobs Jr., Ryan Elliot Jacobs (Jasmin Cueto), and Lauren Ruth Barker
(Cameron); his grandchildren, Joshua Deshawn Jacobs, Gregory Zacharius Jacobs,
Ryan Elliot Jacobs, Kaiyah Marie Jacobs, Hudson James Barker, Levi Elliot Barker,
Charlee Corinne Ruth Barker, and Theo Josiah Barker; and his great-grandchildren,
Kross Messiah Jacobs and Asher Zion Jacobs.

He is also survived by his siblings, Felicia Scott (Melvin), Ronald Jacobs (Antoinette),
Keith Jacobs (Basilia), and Denise Tucker (Nathan); several aunts and uncles; and a
multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
Greg was preceded in death by his parents, Theatris Lester Jacobs and Bennie Ruth
Jacobs, and by his former wife, Theresa Jacobs.

Greg leaves behind cherished memories and also the life lessons he shared so often
with his children and grandchildren. He often recalled his own father's advice, that "It
ain't over until it's over" and "If you don't work, you don't eat." Those words became
guiding principles that will continue to live on through the generations of family he loved
so dearly.

Acknowledgments
The family of Gregory Lester Jacobs wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the
physicians, nurses, and staff of Dignity Health- Memorial Hospital, as well as the many
healthcare professionals whose compassionate care, kindness, and dedication provided
comfort and support throughout Greg's illness.
The family also extends special appreciation to his devoted fiancée, Rachelle Randall,
whose tireless love and selfless caregiving brought Greg comfort, dignity, and
companionship through his most challenging days.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

A memorial service to celebrate Greg’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Living Waters Funeral Home, 620 Oregon Street, Bakersfield, CA 93305.
Following the memorial service, a graveside service will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Union Cemetery, 730 Potomac Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93307.
Afterward, the family invites you to join them for the repast, beginning at 1:30 p.m. at Hodel’s Country Dining, 5917 Knudsen Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93308.