Merri Joanne Smith, 56, of Milford, died unexpectedly, Thursday morning, May 31, 2018, at her residence of natural causes. She was born Nov. 4, 1961, in South Bend to Harvey Monroe and Treva Irene (Weldy) Metzger.

Merri Joanne Smith

She grew up in Wakarusa and lived her lifetime in this area. She was a graduate of NorthWood High School and attended Taylor University. She retired from hair styling after working for more than 25 years. She had most recently worked at Regis Hair Stylist in Elkhart. She had also worked at New Creations in Dunlap and for many years at Nappanee Family Eye Care.

Mrs. Smith attended Nappanee Missionary Church. She loved the outdoors, especially gardening and going for walks.

On April 26, 1986, she married Steven M. Smith. He survives, along with their sons: Grant and Mitchell Smith, both of Warsaw; brothers: Ronnie (Phyllis) Metzger, Wakarusa, Reggie Metzger, Chicago;  sister: Barb (Steve) Cook, Wakarusa; and sister-in-law: Beverly Jackson, Texas.

Family and friends may call from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday, June  4, at Nappanee Missionary Church Chapel and for one hour prior to the funeral service, which will be at 11 a.m., Tuesday, June 5 at Nappanee Missionary Church. Pastor Terry Bley will officiate. Burial will be in Union Center Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to The AGC Baby Center in care of Nappanee Missionary Church.