By Rob Dickens
Using a keyboard has its advantages. If I were putting pen to paper, I’d have to avoid the tear stains as I write this.
It is with deep sadness that I report that Jim Jacob passed away on 13 June 2026, after battling several serious health issues.
Jim was co-editor and co-founder of Listening Through The Lens, having graced these pages for many years with his creative and dazzling images. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and his photos illuminated, elevated and transformed the stories we have presented here for over fourteen years.
More than that, Jim and I have been best buddies since high school in the 1970’s. We shared a musical passion (a flame that never dimmed), a dry humour and a joy for each other’s company.
For those who knew him, Jim was intensely loyal, self-effacing, supportive and loving.
As well as his work for LTTL, Jim’s talent, love of music and photography led him to much freelance work, radio programming and the presidency of City Park Radio.
With deep affection for wife Sheila, children Zoe, Annie, Duncan and granddaughter Winnie.
Life won’t be the same without him.
Rest in peace, Jim.
Below are a few of Jim’s images that have graced our pages (you can find a whole lot more under the Gallery tab).
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June 15, 2026
Very sad news Rob re the passing of Jim. No doubt it would have hit you pretty hard. A great loyal friend who you have shared many experiences with. Always impressed with his Photography skills and that photo of Trombone Shorty was a ripper!!! Philip Osborn
June 16, 2026
Thanks Philip. I appreciate your thoughts. Catch up soon
June 21, 2026
I hung out with you and Jim for an afternoon at the RBBBQ in Columbia, MO in 2018, pretty sure it was that year…. He was such a nice guy (as are you). I think the photos of Trombone Shorty and Jason Isbell w/ Amanda Shires could have been taken at that festival. RIP to him, condolences to you, Rob, in the loss of a dear, old friend. That’s gotta be a hard one. Best to you, hope to see you stateside some time!!
June 21, 2026
Hi Sara. Thanmks for the kind words. We had a memorial for Jim yesterday which was a beautiful celebration – lot’s of music! Yes, I remember you well from Columbia, what a great festival that was. The image of Trombone was from there and the Isbell/Shires was at Byron Bay’s Bluesfest. Thanks again. Best wishes to you!