Sydney Wayne Jacobs

Sydney Wayne Jacobs passed away on July 1, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona, at the age of 92 surrounded by family.

Born on May 13, 1933, Sydney graduated from Biggsville High School in Biggsville, Illinois, in 1951. He served stateside in the U.S. Army for four years during the Korean War. Following his service, he used the GI Bill to pursue higher education, earning a degree in education from Chicago Teachers College and later obtaining a Master’s Degree in Library Science from Arizona State University.

In 1957, Sydney married Koeta Lefler. The couple moved to Chandler, Arizona, in 1962, where they built a life rooted in community and service. Sydney dedicated 34 years to teaching in the Chandler Unified School District before retiring in 1998. His commitment to education left a lasting impact on generations of students.

Beyond the classroom, Sydney was deeply involved in his community. He served on the board of directors at San Tan Credit Union for over three decades and played a foundational role as an elder and builder of Trinity Community Church in Chandler. Sydney is lovingly remembered by his two children, Kevin and Kayla; seven grandchildren, Stephanie, Jason, Nick, Mara, Aerin, Brooke, and Matthew; and three great-grandchildren, Henry, Jack, and Ben.

A Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 8:30 am at Valley of the Sun Cemetery, 10940 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, AZ 85248.

His legacy of service and dedication continues to inspire all who knew him.