Shirleyan Jacobsen went to hang out with the saints, angels, and her besties, the cherubs, on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Shirleyan was born in Sault St. Marie, Michigan on March 9, 1942 to parents, Howard Russell Jacobsen and Shirley Mabel Jacobsen (nee King). She graduated from Loretto High, met and married a super handsome Air Force guy (Terry), and moved to his hometown, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
As a Mom, Shirleyan was ahead of her time, setting an example for strong women and Mom-trepenuers everywhere. She raised Scot, Theresa and Christine, while also carving out multiple home-based business opportunities.
She was an antique dealer, bespoke craft maker, interior designer, sought after watercolor artist, master sewer, avid gardener, and just an all-around undeniable creative force.
Her home was a maximalist’s dream that would welcome, inspire and amaze. Her sense of style and taste was impeccable and her presence and beauty commanded your attention.
Shirleyan was thoughtful and generous, often picking up gifts for her family members and her supremely spoiled kids. She loved to shop, in person or on eBay, Etsy, etc and was a master at finding great deals on the perfect “I just thought of you when I saw it” everyday gift.
As the eldest of 10 kids, Shirleyan had a lot of people she kept her shopper’s eye open for, many who still live in the MOV area.
Shirleyan is survived by her two daughters; Theresa (Frank) and Christine, sisters; Joan and Denise, brothers; Howard, Terry, John, Michael, and Dave. She is preceded in death by her eldest child; Scot, eldest brother; Chris, eldest sister; Patty and parents Howard Sr. and Shirley.
Service will be held Thursday at St. Ambrose Catholic Church with a visitation at 10am and Mass at 11:00 am. Graveside burial to follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to West Virginia Public Broadcasting or Milwaukee Public Television in her memory.
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