The Times' society editor for 14 years (1971-1985) chronicled the days when the Chandler family reigned over Hancock Park and the prominent names in Los Angeles society included the Reagans and Bloomingdales. From today's Times obituary, which notes her birth name was Josephine Caceres: "'Jody was a perfect society reporter,' said Jean Sharley Taylor, who was The Times' associate editor in charge of feature news when Jacobs' column ran in what was then called the View section. 'Her sources were impeccable and she was respected, trusted and liked. That's how she got her tips.'"