Laura Jacobson, 76, of Sugarcreek passed away in her residence on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, following a period of declining health.
Born in Barrs Mills on September 23, 1949, she was the daughter of the late Emanuel D. and Emma (Troyer) Schlabach. She married Jerry Joe Jacobson on December 1, 1988. He passed away on September 13, 2017.
Laura was a member of the Brethren Church, and a founding board member of the Age of Steam Roundhouse. She worked for many years as a waitress at Der Dutchman and later at the Ohio Central Railroad Sugarcreek Depot gift shop. She also assisted her husband Jerry with the business. A talented woman, she enjoyed many hobbies including gardening, painting, traveling, baking (owning her own bakery at one time), sewing, and “watching” the QVC shopping channel. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially during the holidays. She was very generous of her time and resources to those in need.
She is survived by her children Jay (Kayla) Jacobson, Jesse Jacobson, Jana (partner Scott) Jacobson, and Jennifer Jacobson; grandchildren Mason and Bentley; siblings Lewis (Gertrude) Schlabach, Titus (Alice) Schlabach, and Ruth (Dan) Hershberger; and twelve nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by her sister Retha (Joe) Elmhorst.
A private family service will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, with Pastor Scott Compton officiating with entombment to follow at the Age of Steam Roundhouse. A public visitation for Laura will be held at Smith-Varns Funeral Home in Sugarcreek on Sunday, November 23, 2025, from 1-3 and 4-6 p.m.
The family would like to thank special friend and caregiver Debbie Compton, and long-time friend Mary Marshall for their exceptional care of Laura over the years.
Memorial contributions in Laura’s memory may be made to the Alpine Hills Historical Museum 106 W. Main Street, Sugarcreek, OH 44681, or to the American Parkinsons Disease Association P.O. Box 61420 Staten Island, NY 10306.
Smith-Varns Funeral Home
330-852-2141
www.smithfuneralhomesugarcreek.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Laura Jacobson, please visit our floral store.