William James Jacobs

William James Jacobs, affectionately known as “Sonny”, was born on May 12, 1942, to the late James Elmer Wilson and Mary Anna Jacobs in Queen Anne’s County, Maryland. He peacefully departed this life to be with his Lord and Savior on April 14, 2025, at the age of 82.

Sonny was educated at Kennard High School in Queen Anne’s County and a short time later joined the United States Army. Quickly rising to the rank of Seargent, he earned an expert marksmanship medal for his skill yielding a rifle and was later awarded the National Defense Service Medal for honorable service during the Vietnam War.  Sonny concluded his military career in 1971.  He was gainfully employed by the State of MD for many years, before his tenure with Eastern Hardware. During his later years he continued to work part-time for Doverbrook.

Sonny was a dedicated member of the American Legion Blake Blackston Post #77 for 31 years and Corporal Herman Hughes Post #87 for 5 years. There he would spend time playing pool and enjoying the company of his many friends. He loved listening to his old music and jazz and was known for being a sharp dresser with a cool swag. He always had a quick comeback and knew what to say to make you laugh. He was also a poet and penned many of his own poems.

Sonny attended, and later joined, Asbury United Methodist Church under the leadership of Pastor Reginald Pinkett. His relationship with God opened his heart to a closer relationship with his sons. He enjoyed spending holidays with his grandchildren and most recently, his great-grandson. He was a devoted brother, uncle and friend to many. Sonny lived his life to the fullest and on his own terms.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Helen E. Baker, Sharon Lee Harris, and Ruth Wangus, one brother, Weldon Murray, and stepfather, Levi Murray. Sonny leaves to cherish his memory, two sons, Lamont Benson, Sr. (Claudette) and Jazzmon Jacobs, Kwanzaa Brooks (who he raised as a daughter), two sisters, Joyce Ann Byris and Anna Wilson, granddaughter Latay Benson-Smith (Julian), grandson, Lamont Benson, Jr, and great-grandson, Logan. Close relatives and friends also left to cherish his memory: uncle, Vincent (Gene) Wilson, nephew, Davante (Sharky) Baker, and friends, Joyce Murray, Bud Townsend, Denise Potter, Mary Cromwell, William Pinder, and Sidney Roberts.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William James Jacobs, please visit our floral store.