Hugh Jacobson Spring Valley, NY Death Obituary: The Ramapo and Rockland County communities are mourning the loss of Chief Hugh Jacobson, a respected leader of the Monsey Fire Department whose life was defined by service, courage, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others. Chief Jacobson died at the age of 46 after a courageous battle with illness, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered throughout the fire service for years to come.
Following in the footsteps of his father, Hugh Jacobson dedicated nearly three decades to the Monsey Fire Department’s Brewer Fire Engine Company No. 1. Throughout his distinguished career, he steadily rose through the ranks, serving as Lieutenant, Captain, Second Assistant Chief, First Assistant Chief (7-2), and ultimately Chief. His leadership, professionalism, and dedication earned him the admiration of fellow firefighters and the communities he faithfully served.
The Ramapo Police Department paid tribute to Chief Jacobson, describing him as “a true professional and a gentleman in every sense of the word.” Colleagues remembered him as a compassionate leader whose devotion extended beyond emergency response to mentoring fellow firefighters and strengthening the department he loved.
Beyond his remarkable service, Hugh was known as a devoted family man and a trusted friend. Those who knew him speak of his humility, kindness, and willingness to help others, qualities that defined both his personal life and his career in public service.
As tributes continue to pour in from across New York’s emergency services community, Chief Hugh Jacobson’s impact remains unmistakable. His decades of selfless service and steadfast dedication to Ramapo and Rockland County will never be forgotten.
Funeral services for Chief Hugh Jacobson will be held today at 1:30 p.m. at Kehillas Sha’ar HaShamayim, Rabbi Viener’s synagogue, located at 71 E. Willow Tree Road in Spring Valley, New York. Following the service, a procession and fire service tribute will take place at the Monsey Fire Department firehouse on Grove Street beginning at 2:30 p.m., where fellow firefighters, family, friends, and members of the community will gather to honor his life and decades of dedicated service.
He is survived by his family, friends, fellow firefighters, and the countless lives he touched through his commitment to protecting others. May Chief Hugh Jacobson rest in eternal peace, and may his memory forever be a blessing.