Barbara Ann Jaggers

Barbara Jaggers, 83, of Ocala, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025.

Born in Hollywood, Florida, on November 19, 1941, to Horace “Scotty” and Faye Richardson, Barbara grew up in Fort Lauderdale before moving to Ocala in 1976. She quickly embraced her new hometown, making lifelong friends.

She met her future husband, Robert Morrissette, at age 12 in Fort Lauderdale. They didn’t date until after high school, married young, and after three years went their separate ways. Despite their divorce, they remained friends, working together to raise their children and enjoy their grandchildren.

Barbara married Ronnie Neal Jaggers in 1981, and they shared many happy years together until his passing in 1992. Several years later, she met her partner, Ed Leja, with whom she spent 27 wonderful years until his passing in 2024.

Her happiest place on earth was Anna Maria Island, where she enjoyed the beach, the ocean breeze, and stunning sunsets. Whether walking the shoreline, collecting shells, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves, the island was her sanctuary.

Barbara was a devoted mother to Bobby (Margaret) Morrissette and Michelle (David) Hirst, and a loving stepmother to Ronnie (Jennifer) Jaggers. She cherished her grandchildren — Andrew Morrissette, Johnny Walker, and Jeni Walker — and treasured every moment with them.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents Horace “Scotty” & Faye Richardson and her sister Rose Marie Chappel.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025, with a visitation from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm with a funeral service beginning at 1:00pm at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Service, 910 East Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala, Florida, 34470. Burial to follow at Highland Memorial Park. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Friends of Ocala Library in her honor.