Chieko Jacobs

Chieko Jacobs, a woman of remarkable resilience, passed away on June 17, 2026, at the age of ninety-six. She had been a resident of Indianapolis, Indiana, for decades, and her passing leaves a profound absence in the lives of all who knew and loved her.

Chieko was born on October 8, 1929, in Kobe, Japan, where she spent her early years. At the age of nineteen, she met Henry Edward Jacobs, a young man serving in the United States Army. The two fell in love and married, beginning a partnership that would carry them across the Pacific Ocean and into a new chapter together. Their daughter, Lois Jacobs Jackson was born in Kobe in 1949, and the young family soon relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, where Chieko embraced her new home. She enrolled in English classes, immersing herself in the language and culture of her adopted country while never losing sight of the rich Japanese heritage she carried with her. Her son, Frank J. Jacobs, was born on November 10, 1952, completing the family.

Chieko built an impressive career as an electronic maintenance mechanic, working for distinguished companies including RCA and Western Electric Naval Avionics. She ultimately found her professional home at Eli Lilly, where she dedicated over thirty years of faithful service before her retirement. Her career was a testament to the hard work and determination that defined every aspect of her life.

Chieko was a devoted ambassador of Japanese culture in the Indianapolis community. She was a proud member of the Nationalities Council of Indiana for over fifty years, contributing her time, energy, and passion to the organization's mission of celebrating cultural diversity. She was a member of SGI USA International since 1972. She also served as president of the Indianapolis Minyo Dancers for decades, leading the group in performances at the Indy International Festival held annually at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Chieko was especially passionate about involving younger children in learning about Japanese culture, ensuring that the traditions she cherished would be carried forward by new generations.

Chieko's personal interests reflected her vibrant personality. She was an enthusiastic and skilled gambler who loved nothing more than a trip to the casinos, with Las Vegas holding a special place in her heart. She won often; a fact she never minded sharing with a smile. She was also a talented artist and craftsman, creating beautiful origami with patience and precision. Her hands were rarely idle; she spent countless hours knitting, crocheting, and sewing, producing handmade works that were treasured by family and friends.

Chieko is survived by her daughter, Lois Jacobs, and her son, Frank J. Jacobs, who will carry her memory forward with love and pride. Chieko is also survived by five grandchildren: Michelle Greenhouse and Regina Jackson (daughters of Lois), Temple Hill, Katrena Oglesby Clay and Taylor Ford (daughters of Frank) and eight great grandchildren: Cheyenne, Landon and Mason Greenhouse (children of Michelle), Alluria Daniels (daughter of Temple), Jayden Daniels and Biana Reimonenq (children of Regina), William Clay Jr. (son of Katrena), and Elias Ford (son of Taylor).

Memorial services for Chieko Jacobs will be held on Tuesday, June 30, at 11:00 AM, with an open visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, at Indiana Funeral Care, 2433 Main St., Greenwood, Indiana 46143. Family and friends are welcome to gather in remembrance of a truly extraordinary woman.