Jacob Henry Livingston, age 99, of Columbia, formerly of York, PA, passed away August 25, 2025, at Legend of Lancaster. He was the husband of Carolyn Dehler Livingston, with whom he would have celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary in September. He was born on the family farm in Dover, PA, son of the late Oscar M. and Annie Leib Livingston. Jake proudly graduated high school from the school where his beloved uncle taught. After graduation, Jake enlisted in the United States Army where he served from 1944 - 1946 in the 114th Infantry Regiment. He was stationed in France during the final months of WWII as part of an artillery division. He returned home from Europe on the RMS Queen Elizabeth. Jake often reflected on the opportunities enlisting provided him, particularly with travel across the United States and to Europe.
After his military service, Jake became the manager of York Auto Parts and was there for over 35 years until his retirement. Jake enjoyed an active retirement both working part-time and volunteering. He grew and distributed food for the local food pantry, fabricated stair rods and carpet bag accessories for Family Heirloom Weavers, volunteered with Steam-O-Rama where he also displayed his 1929 Hart Parr, and continued his 40+ year participation in the East Prospect Lions Club as well as Canadochly Lutheran Church. He and Carolyn attended his army reunions for many years and enjoyed travels throughout the US and Canada with friends and family. Jake was the ultimate tinkerer, purchasing and restoring a 1931 Ford Model A as well as tracking down and restoring his father’s original Hart Parr tractor. Jake was a quiet, steadfast presence in the lives of others and was adored by his family and friends for his grateful and kind nature.
In addition, to his wife, he is survived by his son, George (Tricia) Livingston; daughters, Gwen (Ted McDaniel) Livingston and Susan (Joe) Staugaard; son-in-law, John Benincasa; plus, eight grandchildren; and brother, George E. Livingston. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Laura Benincasa, two brothers and three sisters.
The Memorial Service will be held at St. John's Herr Estate on September 13, 2025, from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to: ELCA Good Gifts, goodgifts.elca.org, or East Prospect Lions Club, 2599-2605 Craley Road, Wrightsville, PA 17368. Arrangements by the Workman Funeral Homes, Inc., Columbia/Mountville. To send an online condolence, visit the condolence page.