About This Memory Space
This page was created for Margaret J. Hand's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor Margaret J. Hand's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew Margaret J. Hand. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
Margaret J. Hand devoted her life to championing the rights and futures of children, leaving an indelible mark on Indiana's juvenile justice system through her compassionate leadership and innovative reforms.
A steadfast advocate for vulnerable youth, Margaret J. Hand built a career grounded in empathy and justice. Her principled vision reshaped how courts addressed child welfare, prioritizing second chances and family unity over mere penalties. From her base in West Lafayette, she wove together legal expertise with community resources, creating pathways for young people to thrive amid challenges like abuse and neglect.
As Tippecanoe County Juvenile Court Judge, Margaret pioneered the local Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program, recruiting volunteers to amplify children's voices in dependency cases. Her tenure fostered partnerships across courts, social services, and nonprofits, promoting rehabilitation and accountability. Honors included the 1987 Government/Politics Award at Salute to Women, 1988 Lillian Kaplan Award for Human Services, 1991 Robert J. Kinsey and Judge of the Year awards, 1993 Indiana Bar Association Women in the Law recognition, 1995 Citizen of the Year from the National Association of Social Workers Indiana Chapter, and 1998 Vocation Service Award from Lafayette Rotary Club.
Family & Loved Ones
Margaret's world revolved around the close-knit ties she nurtured with her children, David Graham and Francie Doster, as well as her siblings John Hand, Susie Hand Brundage, and Kevin Hand—relationships marked by her quiet strength and unwavering encouragement that made every interaction feel supportive and meaningful.
Remembered by Friends & Family
Tributes from across Tippecanoe County capture Margaret's essence as a beacon of fairness and kindness, with many recalling her gentle wisdom that guided families through tough times and inspired ongoing commitment to child welfare.
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