Dr. Robert Jacobs, 62, chemistry teacher, human rights advocate

Dr. Robert Jacobs of Ridgefield died on June 16 at the age of 62.

Born in Queens, N.Y., he moved to Ridgefield in 1970 after completing his doctorate in chemistry at St. Johns University.

Known to his students as “Dr. J,” he had taught chemistry at Wilton High School for 34 years. His philosophy of education and his desire to change things for the better earned him recognition far beyond Wilton’s borders and his Web site, chemistrycoach.com, continues to challenge students, parents and teachers worldwide, family members said.

Dr. Jacobs coached the girls varsity tennis team and led the squad to several state championships. He was also a faculty adviser to Amnesty International and the Gay Straight Alliance, where he worked with students to further human rights both domestically and abroad.

Among his other passions were classical music, opera, foreign films, the University of Pennsylvania basketball team, Latin dancing, and his family.

He was described as a “generous, intense, loving man who will missed immensely by his family and friends.”

Remembrances in Dr. Jacobs’ name may be made to Amnesty International or the Gay Straight Alliance.

06/30/2004