A longtime staple of Elkhart County government has lost an on-and-off battle with breast cancer.

Jackie Meyers passed away Tuesday at the age of 61, according to our reporting partners at the Elkhart Truth.

Meyers was diagnosed with breast cancer in the spring of 2015. She appeared to have defeated it, at least temporarily, when she received a clean bill of health in late 2015. However, it came back and started to take a toll about three months ago, according to first deputy treasurer Jodi Jones.

Jones had to step up a few times in the last few months when Meyers was unable to work, even though Meyers tried to not miss work as much as possible.

Meyers worked for the county since 1976. She was up for election later this year for her second term as Elkhart County Treasurer.

Jones appears to be the likely choice of Elkhart County Republicans in the Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Mike Yoder told the Elkhart Truth that they were impressed with Jones when she had to step up.

Elkhart County Republicans will officially meet on Sept. 23 to fill the open spot as well as pick a candidate for November. The challenger in November would take on Democrat Greg Burtsfield.