Jacquelyn (Jackie) Herndon age 96, of Athens passed away Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026, at her residence after a period of declining health.
Mrs. Herndon was born on Oct. 31, 1929, in Darien, Connecticut, to B.D. and Elizabeth Hutchison. She graduated from Lynchburg College and received her Ed.S from the University of Georgia.
She taught several years in Virginia and the family moved to Georgia in 1964. After her two children were both in school, Mrs. Herndon returned to teaching business education at Oglethorpe County High School, where she was active in the Delta Kappa Gamma teaching sorority.
She retired from teaching in 1988 and worked at the University of Georgia until her retirement in 1991. After retirement, she enjoyed spending time with her family, playing bridge, knitting and traveling the world.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband of 59 years, G. Melvin Herndon. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Ronny Just; son and daughter-in-law, Kerry and Angie Herndon; sister-in-law, Elaine Satterfield; grandchildren, Meghan (John) Lindsay, Matthew (Erin) Just and Drew (Pressley) Herndon; great grandchildren, Felicity Just, August Just, Fielding Lindsay and Hattie Herndon; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends at Lord & Stephens East from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13, with services immediately following in the funeral home chapel with Talmage Terrace with Chaplain Dick Huycke officiating.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the compassionate care provided to our beloved Nanny by the caregivers of Talmage Terrace Personal Care, Agape Hospice Care and Serenity Care Haven.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Community Christmas of Oglethorpe County or Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, East, is in charge of arrangements.