‘He loved unconditionally’: Local pastor dies after battle with COVID-19

RICHMOND COUNTY, N.C. — A special tribute was held Tuesday for a beloved pastor, who touched many lives before he died from COVID-19. Pastor Ricky Jacobs was loved by so many throughout the Richmond County community.

His funeral was held on a football field, a special place for the pastor, which allowed more people to attend.

Jacobs, a larger than life figure, was honored on the Richmond Senior High School football field Tuesday afternoon. Those who couldn’t get in waited in their cars and listened to the service on the radio.

Jacobs was known as “Rev” by many who went to high school football games. His family knew him as “Uncle Ricky.”

“He loved unconditionally, regardless of race, color, creed. Even if you didn’t want him to, he still loved you,” said Chris Jacobs, a family member.

Loved ones, friends and many who will miss Jacobs also celebrated his homecoming with Jesus. His passing due to complications from COVID-19 early Saturday morning left its mark but not greater than the one Jacobs left on them.

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Many said that Jacobs' love was unending, extending to his family, community, Raiders High School football and most of all, Jesus.

“Everywhere he went, he spoke the word of God,” said Kevin Eubanks, Jacobs' nephew.

The “Rev” Pastor Ricky Jacobs on field funeral at Richmond Sr. High. He passed Saturday due to #COVID.

He was a larger than life figure. Coach Bryan Till said, for 25 years “that man was at the games every night.” And, “He knew when you needed that prayer.” @wsoctv pic.twitter.com/D4e5Fohm2z
— Blaine Tolison (@BTolisonWSOC9) October 6, 2020

Jacobs became a staple in Richmond County and in high school athletics over the years. Richmond High School Principal Jim Butler has worked in education for about 30 years in the county. His memories of Jacobs go back decades.

He spoke Tuesday about what Jacobs meant to young athletes.

“They just know he’s a part of the Raiders,” Butler said. “It’s going to be tough moving along without him, but he has the best seat in the house.”

‘He loved unconditionally’: Local pastor dies after battle with COVID-19 Pastor Ricky Jacobs

Jacobs was known for handing out seeds and gum and for making people laugh.

Days before he passed away, Jacobs reminded his community of his most important gift to them -- prayer.

Before his death, Jacobs acknowledged Richmond High Football’s head coach Bryan Till in a prayer.

“We thank you for what you’ve done, Coach Till. We love you,” Jacobs said. “The school staff, the principals, every child, dear God, every teacher, father.”

Jacobs ended his prayer with these words: “In the name, the holy name of Jesus, dear God. We pray. Amen.”