Thyra Metzler

Thyra Louise Metzler, 95, of Elkhart, IN went to her heavenly home on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 from Hubbard Hill Estates. She was born on January 12, 1931 in New Paris, IN to George and Mildred (Sherman) Neff. On May 10, 1953, Thyra married Lowell Metzler, who preceded her in death on February 18, 2007. She later married Kenneth Pletcher on October 25, 2015. He preceded her in death on January 22, 2024.

Thyra graduated from Manchester University with a bachelor’s degree in music education, and she taught music at Concord West Side Elementary. Later she taught piano from her home, and served as accompanist to Elkhart Memorial High School choirs. Her faith in Jesus Christ and love for music also fueled her dedication as Director of Music at Elkhart City Church of the Brethren for 27 years. She performed as a soloist and in ensembles with Sigma Eta Music Sorority, and was a founding member of Camerata Singers. Later she became leasing manager for Greencroft Tower in downtown Elkhart (now Hotel Elkhart) and then York Woods Apartments, working full time almost until her 80th birthday. In her free time, she enjoyed sewing, traveling, reading, and volunteering at Ruthmere and The Lerner Theatre. She especially loved spending time with family and friends, many times hosting events in her home. Whether you knew her as our Mom, Grammy, Aunt Thyra, or simply “Mrs.M,” she will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her children; Marvin (Karen) Metzler of Union, MI and Amy (Billy) Roller of Forest, VA, grandchildren; Nathan Metzler, Stephanie Metzler, Abby (James) Barnes, and Hannah (Ben) Bailey, plus great-grandchildren; Liam and Cora Barnes, and Beau, Emma Kate and Evelyn Bailey. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Sue Neff. She was preceded in death by her parents; George and Mildred Neff, her brother Rene Neff, husband, Lowell Metzler, and husband, Kenneth Pletcher.

Family will receive friends from 3-7 pm on Monday, May 18, 2026 at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, 1531 Cobblestone Blvd, Elkhart, IN 46514. Visitation will be from 10-11 am on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Beulah Missionary Church, 57595 Old County Road 17, Goshen, IN 46528 with Celebration of Life service at 11 am. Burial will follow at Rice Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made to Beulah Missionary Church www.beulahchurch.org RETA Pregnancy Clinic and Family Resources www.retaforlife.com or Roanoke Valley Children’s Choir www.childrenschoir.com. The family expresses their deep appreciation for the excellent and compassionate care given by Hubbard Hill and Goshen Home Health and Hospice. Condolences can be left for the family at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com.