Margaret Bernadette Jacob

Margaret Bernadette Valigursky Jacob, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and dedicated healthcare professional, peacefully departed this life on June 14, 2025, in Oxford, North Carolina, at the age of 94. Born on February 2, 1931, in Torrington, Connecticut, to Andrew and Anna (Trembac) Valigursky, Margaret's life was marked by her devotion to both her family and her work.

A graduate of Torrington High School and St. Francis School of Nursing in Hartford, Connecticut (Class of 1952), Margaret served as a registered nurse who exemplified compassion and commitment. Throughout her career, she was admired as a loving caretaker and multi-disciplinary nurse, providing comfort and expertise to those in need. For Margaret, nursing was not merely a profession; it was a passion that resonated deeply throughout her life. She particularly enjoyed working at the Brooker Memorial in Torrington Connecticut after graduating from nursing school.

Margaret quietly pursued her interests with enthusiasm. An avid reader, she particularly enjoyed histories of the British monarchy, the Russian Tzars, and the Incas. She once said if she had not become a nurse, she would have been a librarian. She was also a fan of true crime shows, taking notes on the cases like a detective; her other profession had she not become a nurse was that of state trooper. She loved gardening, spending hours tending to her roses and other plants even in the North Carolina heat. Margaret found joy in bird watching, taking comfort in the tranquility and beauty of nature. A devoted Catholic, she drew strength and a sense of community from her faith and was a longtime member of St. Maron’s Church in Torrington, CT.

Those who knew Margaret often described her as caring and generous, known for her fashion sense and green thumb. She had a bright and keen mind throughout her life, with a sharp wit that brought smiles to the faces of those around her. Above all, she loved her family, fiercely standing with them whenever called to do so.

Margaret is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Dianne Dinnean, nee Jacob, (Robert) of Niantic Connecticut and Christine Jacob (Janie) of Rougemont North Carolina, along with her granddaughters, Katherine and Mary Dinnean. Margaret was a consistent and loving presence during the formative years of her beloved granddaughters, helping by her presence to create strong and independent women. She is also survived by her sisters, Victoria Rubino and Sofia DeBonis, as well as extended family and friends whose lives she touched.

She was predeceased in death by her husband, Bernarr A. Jacob, with whom she shared 51 years of marriage, and by her parents. Margaret is now reunited with her siblings, Andrew Valigursky, Katherine Hanny, Ann Valigursky, and Agatha Polowy.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross or the National Audubon Society in her honor.

Catholic services to be held, Saturday, October 11, 2025, at St. Maron's Church from 9:30 am to 11:30 am with internment to follow service at St. Peters Cemetery, 236 East Pearl Road, Torrington, CT, 06790.   The family appreciates all kindnesses shared. 

“Do not look forward to what might happen tomorrow; the same Everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day. Either He will shield you from suffering or He will give you the unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace then and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.” St. Francis de Sales

The Jacob family is being cared for by Gentry-Newell & Vaughan Funeral Home, located at 503 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565. Online memorials can be made at www.gnvfuneralhome.com.