Barbara Jaeckel Clingenpeel

July 13, 1935 – September 28, 2026

Barbara Jaeckel Clingenpeel, 91, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away on September 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, independence, friendship, and adventure.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Barbara grew up in the farming community of Roselawn, Indiana, where she spent her early years plowing fields of corn and asparagus, learning to drive on a stick shift on tractor, and working at her parents' gas station while attending high school. These experiences helped shape the fiercely independent and determined woman she would become.

At just 17, Barbara and her friend Jackie packed up a car and headed south to Jacksonville, where her older sister, Joan Repper, had already established roots. It was the beginning of a life marked by independence and an adventurous spirit.

A woman of deep faith, Barbara was a dedicated member of St. Matthew's Catholic Church for more than 63 years. She was actively involved in the parish, its school, and the church community, where she cultivated many cherished friendships.

An avid tennis player, Barbara spent countless hours on the courts at Boone Park and Timuquana Country Club. Her competitive spirit, love of the game, and friendships formed through tennis were an important part of her life.

Barbara also had a passion for art and design. She was a longtime docent at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens and founded, owned, and operated Habitat, her own interior design business.

Approaching her 50th birthday, Barbara embarked on what could best be described as her second career: world traveler. Exploring new countries and cultures became one of her greatest passions and a defining joy of her life.

Barbara was truly one of a kind. A straight shooter and a tough cookie, she was outspoken, strong-willed, quick-witted, and never one to mince words. She loved good company, lively conversation, and the friendships she cultivated throughout her life. Those who knew Barbara knew exactly where they stood with her, and that was part of what made her so memorable.

Barbara is survived by her four children, Cindy Hart, Bill Clingenpeel Jr., Mary MacNamara, and Anne Taylor; her grandchildren, John Hart, Hilah Hart, Brooke Benchimol (husband Danny), Michael MacNamara (wife Lauren), Calla MacNamara, Matthew MacNamara, Caroline Taylor, and Nicholas Taylor; and her great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Andrew Benchimol and Ada MacNamara.

Barbara lived life on her own terms, embracing it with strength, conviction, and an adventurous heart. Her indomitable spirit, sharp wit, and unmistakable personality will be remembered by all who knew her.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Barbara's life will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., at St. Matthew's Catholic Church, 1773 Blanding Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida 32210.

A reception will immediately follow the Mass in the parish hall.