J. Roger Jobson
May 9, 1928 - February 27, 2017
Roger Jobson, of Alameda and formerly San Francisco, passed on February 27, 2017, surrounded by his partner and cherished spouse of 38 years, Anthony Houben, and his beloved son, Mark deVille Jobson. Roger was born May 9, 1928 in what was then French Equatorial Africa to missionary parents Orville and Charlotte (Hillegas) Jobson. He was raised in Africa until he was sent to Pennsylvania to complete high school. After graduation, he moved to California, later serving in the U.S. Army for two years during the Korean War as a typist (95wpm) and played organ at the military’s Sunday services; he was honorably discharged in 1952. He lived abroad for a number of years, and finished his career as the Curator for The Society of California Pioneers. He later made a significant contribution in his work with National Council on Aging in San Francisco. He was a member of the Bohemian Club (Camp Oz), Sons of the Revolution, St. Andrews Society, St. Nicholas Society, Huguenot Society, and the Loyal Legion. Throughout his life, Roger extensively travelled the world, and was particularly fond of visiting Asia. He collected antiques, studied genealogy, and supported the fine arts. He will be fondly remembered for his humor, wit, ability to spin a fascinating story, and for the value he stored in love and long held close relationships.
He is survived by his spouse, Anthony Houben; a son from his marriage to Mary (Greene), Mark deville Jobson; a sister, Kathryn (William) Bellinger, and beloved Oscar his chihuahua. He was proceeded in death by his parents, his brother David Jobson, and a nephew, Stephen Bellinger.
A graveside memorial service will be held Tuesday, March 7, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. at Cypress Lawn, 1370 El Camino Real, Colma. All are welcome to join and celebrate Roger. Donations in Roger’s memory may be made to Médecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors without Borders USA chapter) by calling (212) 763-5779 or writing donations@newyork.msf. org.For further information please call: Harry W. Greer, Funeral Director (FDR-745). 510-522-6020