Hugh Jacobson, Obituary, Monsey Community Mourns Veteran Fire Chief Hugh (Chaim) Jacobson After Decades of Dedicated Service
The Monsey community is mourning the passing of Hugh (Chaim) Jacobson, the longtime First Assistant Chief of the Monsey Fire Department’s Brewer Fire Engine Company No. 1, following a lengthy battle with a serious illness. He was 46.
Jacobson devoted nearly 30 years of his life to serving the residents of Monsey through the fire department, building a remarkable legacy of courage, leadership, and selfless service. Inspired by his late father, who also served as a dedicated firefighter, Jacobson joined the department approximately 28 years ago and steadily rose through the ranks. During his distinguished career, he served as Lieutenant, Captain, Second Assistant Chief, and ultimately First Assistant Chief, becoming one of the department’s most respected leaders.
A lifelong resident of Monsey, Jacobson attended Yeshiva Chofetz Chaim in Suffern before graduating from the Torah Academy of Bergen County. His commitment to volunteer service reflected the values instilled in him from an early age, and he remained deeply devoted to protecting the community he proudly called home.
Known for his calm demeanor under pressure, Jacobson emphasized firefighter safety while leading emergency operations. Fellow firefighters admired his ability to balance decisive action with an unwavering commitment to ensuring every member returned home safely after each call. He also took great pride in fostering unity within Brewer Fire Engine Company No. 1, often highlighting the strong bond shared among firefighters from diverse backgrounds working together as one family.
His passing leaves a profound void within the Monsey Fire Department and among the countless residents whose lives were touched by his dedication.
Funeral services (Levaya) will be held on Friday at 1:30 p.m. at Kehillas Sha’ar HaShamayim (Rabbi Viener), located at 71 E. Willow Tree Road in Spring Valley. Following the service, a procession will honor Chief Jacobson at the Brewer Fire Engine Company No. 1 firehouse before his aron is taken to New Square and later transported to Eretz Yisroel for burial.
Baruch Dayan HaEmes.
