Larry Jacobs (second from right) at an international meeting in Greece
ROCKFORD – Pro-family activists worldwide are mourning the sudden death of Lawrence Jacobs, Managing Director of the International Organization for the Family and the World Congress of Families. Jacobs, 50, died Monday after suffering a sudden and unexpected stroke.
The Rockford-based organization is grief-stricken, President Brian S. Brown said in an announcement emailed Wednesday afternoon.
"Larry was an invaluable member of our team, someone who has been a leader for the pro-family movement worldwide. I have already received messages from around the world on how much Larry touched so many people's lives," Brown wrote. "Beyond being a pro-family leader of inestimable importance, Larry was a loving husband to his wife, Jennifer, and devoted father to his two children. Larry was a devout and faithful Christian who loved the Lord and lived his faith proudly."
Jacobs' contribution to building the family is being recognized from around the world.
"Foundation for African Cultural Heritage, Africa and indeed the whole world – Asia, Europe, America, Canada mourn your death," Tessy Okafor wrote on the Facebook page.
"Your footprints are everywhere. You built an international coalition that cut across national, racial and religious boundaries. You were a committed husband and father and you always put your family, whom you loved and celebrated, first…"
Numerous tributes continue to be posted on his Facebook page from colleagues, college friends and relatives.
"We know that many of you will want to be informed of the details of his memorial service, and will share them when possible," Brown wrote in the announcement. "For those who wish to help Larry's family financially at this difficult time, donations can be made online to the Larry Jacobs Family Fund by clicking here."
Mr. Jacobs' parting words to his Facebook friends posted Sunday morning:
