Obituary of Francine J. Jacobs

Francine (Reynolds) Jacobs, 66, a life-long resident of Iowa City, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at Solon Retirement Village on Friday, June 24, 2016. Francine suffered from vascular medical complications over the last several years. Francine was preceded in death by her mother, father, and siblings: Gene, Mick, Sandy, Merwin and Dee Dee. Francine Jean Reynolds was born at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City on October 3, 1949. She was the daughter of Agnes and Arthur Reynolds. Francine attended Iowa City High School. She worked for the University of Iowa for many years and finished her career at the UI College of Dentistry as a dental assistant. Francine was an officer and union steward for AFSCME (local 12). She helped negotiate several state contracts fighting for better wages, working conditions, and insurance for employees. After the birth of her youngest son, Josh, she stayed at home with her children. The most important things in Francine’s life were her family and friends. Francine married her beloved husband, Tom in 1989. Francine adored and was the proud mother of five children: Terry, Kim (and husband, Roger), Kurt, Kelly and Josh, and grandma to her granddaughters: Taylor, Karley, and great-grandchildren. Additionally, Francine (known by many as “Aunt Fran”) adored and loved her large extended family and many close friends. Fran loved to travel with family and friends on many memorable vacations to California, Florida, Hawaii, Nevada, South Dakota, and the Bahamas. Fran loved dancing; you would always find her on the dance floor at family events. Additionally, she enjoyed politics, attending Democratic events, gardening, attending church at St. Patrick’s Catholic Parish, playing Bingo, listening to music, and most importantly spending time with family and friends. Francine was a truly loved woman. She was the most amazing mother, wife, grandma, aunt, and friend. Francine’s family and friends will be forever thankful to have had her in their lives. Francine will never be forgotten. A time of visitation will be held Monday, June 27, 2016 from 4-6 pm at the Gay and Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City where a memorial service will begin at 6 pm.