Parting Shot • September 2023

by Ann Marie Kennon

In New York City, when a person of great import or legendary status passes away, all the lights on Broadway are dimmed for one minute.

BUT THIS IS TEXAS, AND DISPLAYING A HEARTFELT TRIBUTE TO A MAN SO WELL KNOWN AND RESPECTED ON A SONIC MARQUEE IS HOW IT’S DONE IN THESE PARTS.

Georgetown’s farewell was no less grand and in no way diminishes the memory of the remarkable light that was dimmed for all of us when Jimmy Jacobs passed away unexpectedly August 18.

If you were driving down Austin Avenue a few weeks ago you likely saw this sign and had one of two reactions. If you were blessed enough to have known Jimmy, you felt a jolt of disbelief and sadness to think that this active and vibrant friend was gone. If you didn’t know him, you might have wondered who this person was that he warranted a sign all his own.

For us, this single image encapsulates the idea that Georgetown is still a small enough town to recognize its favorite and fortunate sons, and never forget the generosity of a man who left his fingerprints all over town. You may not have met Jimmy, but the odds are good that you lived in a home he built or know someone who does. Or your children worked in or received help from The Locker, or you perhaps volunteered or were helped in a time of need at the Children’s Advocacy Center—organizations Jimmy quietly supported with his talent and treasure for years.

Maybe you attended one of the churches he built, or rebuilt, or donated to. You might have attended one of the many fundraisers he hosted for dozens of candidates always working hard to maintain Georgetown and Williamson County as a place with good family values and a future that, to him, always looked prosperous.

Jimmy grew up in Georgetown, and Georgetown will always be better for it. While those who knew him will miss the light that shone in Jimmy’s eyes, his community spirit, abundant yet humble generosity, and steadfast friendship will remain an enduring legacy for the Georgetown community.