Eliot S. Jacobson

Eliot S. Jacobson, a 50-year Newton resident, died peacefully at his home on July 29, 2014, surrounded by his children. He was the beloved husband for 49 years of the late Gay (Swankin) Jacobson. He leaves behind his loving children: Susan Lewis and her husband David of London, England; Rachel Kramer and her husband Robert of Concord; and Peter Jacobson of Essex Junction, VT. He was the much-loved grandfather of Philippa Lewis and Sasha, Talya, and Daniel Kramer. He also leaves a brother, Alan Jacobson, of Evanston, IL, and his wife Linda, and many affectionate nieces and nephews. Eliot was born in Jamaica Plain on May 17, 1929 to the late William and Anna (Levine) Jacobson. After receiving a B.A. from Northeastern University, he joined his father in the family real estate business. Eventually he opened his own firms, Clarendon Park Associates and Old Colony Properties, both in the South End. Eliot was closely involved in the regeneration of the South End and a well-known member of the local business community for many years. Eliot spent many years both before and after retirement volunteering with the Greater Boston Real Estate Board and the Newton Community Development Foundation, where he spent almost 20 years as a member of the Board. Beloved by all who knew him for his kindness, intelligence, and charm, Eliot maintained a network of close friends around his neighborhood and community. A Red Sox fan of the old style, Eliot followed the ups and downs of his team with an equal mix of excitement and rueful frustration (depending on the team's performance). Eliot was passionate about his strong political feelings and had a lifelong commitment to local and national liberal causes. He and his wife had a great love of traveling, and could often be found in exotic corners of the world. He had a great love of classical and contemporary art, and loved visiting museums wherever he travelled. In his retirement, Eliot rediscovered the joys of cribbage and always looked forward to his weekly game. He enjoyed taking long walks around his Newton neighborhood every day, regardless of the weather. In the last few years, Eliot became closely involved with Newton at Home, an organization that provides services to the local elderly population. Contributions in his honor may be made to Newton at Home, 206 Waltham Street, West Newton, MA 02465 or www.newtonathome.org.