Edward Jacobs

Born on October 10, 1932, in Brooklyn, New York, Edward was the son of Sydney and Sarah (“Sadie”) Jacobs. He proudly served his country as a Navy veteran of the Korean War before beginning a career at the National Security Agency.

On April 18, 1958, he married the love of his life, Joyce Jacobs. Together they built a life centered on family, service, and curiosity about the world.

Edward began his career with the National Security Agency in 1957, dedicating nearly four decades to public service. During his distinguished career, he served in a number of international assignments, including postings in Japan, England, and Germany. He capped his career with a diversity tour representing the Pentagon’s Technical Liaison Office in Turkey. He retired in 1994 as a member of the Senior Executive Service.

For 57 years, Columbia, Maryland was his adopted hometown, where he and Joyce raised their family and built lasting friendships. In retirement, he remained active in the community as a volunteer and member of the Board of Directors of the National Cryptologic Museum.

Edward had a lifelong love of travel and learning. He was an avid reader of history and historical fiction, enjoyed good wine and the company of his wine club friends, and took great pride in his woodworking. In his quiet, methodical way, he built an amazing life. Personally and professionally, everyone had a tremendous amount of respect for him.

He was predeceased by his older brother, Leonard Jacobs, and his older sister, Mildred Jacobs. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 69 years, Joyce Jacobs; his children, David (Amanda) Jacobs, Andrew (Jackie) Jacobs, and Margaret Rebecca Jacobs; his grandchildren, William and Joseph Jacobs, and Sarah, Seth, and Matthew Jacobs; and his youngest sister, Barbara Siegalman.

A private military service will be held on March 18 in Crownsville, Maryland.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Sierra Club, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (Save the Bay), Wounded Warriors or the National Cryptologic Museum, where Ed volunteered and served as a member of the Board of Directors.