Gladys Jacober, 91

NARRAGANSETT, R.I. – Gladys H. (Talan) Jacober passed away peacefully on March 6 at home. She was the beloved wife of the late Harold B. Jacober for 56 years.

Born in Providence, a daughter of the late Morris and Bessie (Botvin) Talan, she was a resident of Narragansett for 44 years, previously living in Cranston. Gladys was a member of Temple Beth-El and Congregation Beth David. She was a graduate of Hope High School.

She was the devoted mother of Alan Jacober and his wife, Jane, of Providence, and her late children Jeffrey Jacober and his wife, Karen, and Ellen H. Jacober. She was the loving grandmother of David Jacober, Michael (Kennon) Jacober, Suzanne (Evan) Walke, Andrew Jacober, and the late Eric Jacober. She was the cherished great-grandmother of Jules, Rozsa, Olivia and Scarlett. She was the dear sister of the late Herbert Talan and the late Evelyn Zimberg. She was an adored aunt and a dear friend to many. Gladys and the late George Feldman found a renewed happiness together in their later years of life.

Gladys was a businesswoman well ahead of her time. She co-founded Alpine Ski Shops and built this business by her late husband’s side. Although her role was often behind the scenes, she would also work 12-hour days on the sales floor, in her clogs, always welcoming people into “her second home.” She was one of the most respected apparel buyers in the ski industry, and she was known for her keen eye for fashion and quality until her retirement in 1988.

Her home was her sanctuary, and she loved her gardens, the ocean and, most of all, spending time with her cherished children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family and friends. Her home was always open to help anyone she could who may have had some issues finding their way in life. A great listener, Gladys would also tell it like it is. She carried herself with grace and a quiet elegance.

The family is especially grateful to her caregivers Silvia, Martha, Erin, Barbara and Mary for giving her companionship and dignity without any hesitation through these difficult times and circumstances.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Congregation Beth David, 102 Kingstown Road, Narragansett, RI 02882 or a charity of your choice.