Surrounded by her loving family, Jacquelyn Ellen (Huffer) Douglas, 76, of Rochester, died on November 26, 2025, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. She was born on February 13, 1949 in Frankfort, Indiana to Robert and Carol (Cannon) Huffer. She was formerly married to Michael Douglas. She found her second love with Patrick McTaggart, who survives.
Jacque attended schools in Frankfort, graduating as salutatorian of the 1967 class of Frankfort Senior High School. She graduated from Ball State University with Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees. She completed the EPPSP program at Butler University to earn her education administration certification.
Her call to become an educator came early as she announced in second grade she would become a teacher. She wanted children to enjoy reading and learning as much as she did. As an educator, she recognized children’s strengths and guided students in building on their assets while stressing integrity and respect of self and others. Central to her decision-making process was always the question, “What’s in the best interest of children?” She loved being an educator and having the opportunity to interact with thousands of children throughout her career.
During her 42 years in education, she taught for 15 years in the Community Schools of Frankfort, served as a principal for 17 years in Twin Lakes School Corporation (where she was the first female administrator) and Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation, and lastly served as a central office administrator in BCSC for 10 years. She was also an adjunct professor in early childhood education at Ivy Tech.
In addition to her work in the classroom and schools, Jacque worked tirelessly in the community to promote positive youth development. She was a champion for children.
Her leadership skills were apparent as Director of Council for Youth Development and Family School Partners. She served as an officer in multiple organizations, including terms as President of Lincoln Central Neighborhood Family Center Board of Directors, Childhood Connections Board of Directors, Riley PTO and Frankfort Education Association. For many years she chaired the Bartholomew County United Way Youth Campaign. Brenda Flanagan and she established Dancing with the Stars…Columbus Style, a fund raiser for Family School Partners and Children, Inc.
Jacque’s other community involvement included service on the Boards of Directors of Foundation for Youth, George Junior Republic Indiana, Kidscommons, Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, and Clinton County Big Brothers Big Sisters, as well as First Call for Help 211 Advisory Council, the School Supply Assistance Committee, Latino Education Outreach Committee, and other community groups.
She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, Phi Delta Kappa, Tri Kappa, Bartholomew County Retired Teachers, Indiana Retired Teachers and life member of National Education Association. She had donated her time as a Book Buddy, coach, and Sunday School teacher.
She was an active member of the Rochester First Christian Church where she served as chair of the Board of Directors, as a deacon and on committees, as well as volunteered for church activities.
Her service was recognized when she was named the recipient of awards, which included United Way Advocate Award from Bartholomew County United Way, Champion for Kids Award from Childhood Connections, and Women in Leadership Award from Columbus Chamber of Commerce. She was a member of the Community Building Delegation to South Africa led by then Indiana First Lady, Judy Bannon.
Jacque lived a full life. Patrick and she created many fond memories during their travels and time with family and friends. She treasured the many traditions the family created around holidays, birthdays and vacations. Camp Sug was a special week Jacque shared with her grandchildren each summer as they experienced unique adventures, visited new locations, completed a service project and enjoyed time together. She always supported her daughters and grandchildren by attending their sporting events, academic and band competitions, concerts, plays, recitals and award programs. As her oldest granddaughter said, “Sugie was always present.” She enjoyed spending time reading, traveling, gardening, playing tennis, playing word games, attending or watching Colts, Cubs, IU and Purdue games, as well as sharing her love of nature, books, genealogy, photography and music. She also was generous with her time volunteering in the community where she lived.
Jacque is survived by her loving partner, Patrick McTaggart of Rochester, IN; precious daughters, Lisa Pierce of Frankfort, IN and Allison (Greg) Conrad of Columbus, IN; grandchildren who brought her much joy, Charlotte, Jackson and Ella Jo Conrad of Columbus, IN and Libby Pierce of Frankfort, IN; beloved brother and sister-in-law, Gary (Cathy) Huffer of McComb, MS and many dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her loving parents, precious granddaughter, Abby Pierce, and beloved son-in-law, Jay Pierce.
Visitation will take place from 10 a.m.- 11 a.m. Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Rochester First Christian Church, 1101 Madison St., Rochester, IN 46975. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at the church. A Celebration of Life will be held in Frankfort at a later date. Memorial donations in Jacque’s honor may be made to the Jacquelyn Huffer Douglas Scholarship Fund through Frankfort Education Foundation (2400 E. Wabash St., Frankfort, IN 46041); Lincoln Central Neighborhood Family Center (1039 Sycamore St., Columbus, IN 47201); or Rochester First Christian Church (1101 Madison St., Rochester, IN 46975). Goodwin Funeral Home, 200 S. Main St., Frankfort is assisting the family. Please visit goodwinfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence.