Jacquelyn A. Carkhuff

Jacquelyn Carkhuff, 73, of Ormond Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2025. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Lee Carkhuff; her parents, Dorothy and Walter Kirkpatrick; and her brother, Edwin Kirkpatrick.

A proud graduate of Seabreeze High School, Jacquelyn went on to earn her degrees from Stetson University and Phoenix University, culminating in a Master’s in Information Services. Her career reflected her dedication to her community and intellect, including time with the News-Journal, the City of Ormond Beach, and Central Square Technologies. She shared many professional years with her husband Lee at the News-Journal, forming a powerful and enduring partnership both at home and at work.

Jacquelyn had a deep love for nature, particularly her yard and garden, where she spent countless hours tending to flowers and visiting with her “yard friends”—deer, turkeys, squirrels, and birds who came to know her quiet kindness.

She had a vibrant love for all things Disney and Christmas, never missing a chance to decorate and celebrate every holiday with joy and creativity. She was also a wonderful cook, known for making delicious meals that brought people together. Jacquelyn was also a troop leader and coordinator for the Citrus Council of Girl Scouts USA, and assisted in running the day camps at Tomoka State Park in Ormond. This passion she passed along to her daughter, Christine, who followed in her mom’s footsteps under her, becoming a Senior Cadet Instructor and helping her father who was involved in campsites.

Jacquelyn is survived by her loving daughter Christine Carkhuff and daughter-in-law Jennifer Orr; her sister-in-law Cindy Kirkpatrick; and two cherished nieces, Hailey Kirkpatrick and Katelyn Gidney. Her legacy also lives on through her five adored cats, who were like her children and brought her endless companionship and comfort.

Jacquelyn’s gentle spirit, quick wit, and generous heart touched many lives. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all the creatures who found a safe haven in her presence.

Services will be held at Volusia Memorial Funeral Home – Ormond Beach, 548 N. Nova Road Ormond Beach, FL on June 28, 2025 at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local animal rescue or wildlife preservation organization in Jacquelyn’s memory.