James Allen Jacobson

James Allen Jacobson, 81, of La Selva Beach, California and of Newton, Massachusetts, passed away on Wednesday, November 19th, 2025.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Deborah Jacobson; his children; Adam Jacobson and Naomi Jacobson Frankel; his son-in-law Ilan Frankel; his grandchildren Shylie, Nadav, and Kesem Frankel, and his granddog, Mango J.

Born on March 21, 1944, in Buffalo, NY to Louis and Edith Jacobson, and brother to David. Jim was a happy and tidy child. He was funny and fastidious from a young age, creating mischief with his childhood and lifelong friends. He had distinct creative sensibilities and was gifted in working with his hands.

After graduating from high school, Jim went to UCLA as an undergraduate, followed by dental school in UCSF, then USC for Orthodontics. He knew he met the love of his life, Deborah Bleiberg, when he was 21. Six years and eight weeks later, they stood underneath a Chuppah. Together they built a home in La Selva Beach, where he could be close to the ocean while tending to his magnificent garden.

As an orthodontist, Jim established his practice in Watsonville and Aptos. He loved teeth, and treating kids. He also loved challenging them to various video games in the waiting room.

After 20 years, Jim took a hiatus to attend law school at Santa Clara University. After practicing law for a few years, he realized he missed orthodontics and returned to serve the community he loved.

Jim was happiest when he was at home with his family. He was obsessed with gadgets and building models of wooden ships. He enjoyed home repair projects, and was mostly successful at them. He loved growing orchids, Japanese maples, and taking wildlife photographs during his various adventures. Jim was irreverent and hilarious, thoughtful and accepting. He made people feel welcome and seen.

In his final years, he chose to live closer to his kids and grandchildren. He watched endless gymnastics classes, soccer and baseball games, and riding lessons. He was always up for a coffee run, a hike, and a good tuna sandwich. Jim's personality and qualities live on with his children and grandchildren. He was a devoted husband and father.

His memory will forever be a blessing.

Many thanks to Jim's caregivers at The Falls at Cordingly Dam, but most especially to Laura Onajite and Sweetzy Jean-Francois.

A memorial service to honor Jim will be held in La Selva Beach, California on February 21, 2026.