Joan Metts

Joan Ellen Metts of Cotter passed away Tuesday, February 16, 2021, in Little Rock, at the age of 88. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Claude L. Metts, with whom she would have celebrated 70 years of marriage on February 2, 2021. She was also preceded in death by her sons, Glenn Metts and Gerry Metts. She is survived by her son, Gregg (Jennifer) Metts of Fairview, AR, and her four daughters, Gwenn Queen of Gassville, AR, Gayle (Robert) Peeples of Jacksonville, AR, Gina (Charles) Slater of Gassville, AR, and Ginney (Junior) Oliver of Nabb, IN; her sister Sandy (Tom) Quick of Denver, CO; 14 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, her two nieces, a nephew, and a host of adopted family and friends, who are all cherished but too numerous to list by name.

Joan was born to Ralph Stoltz and Grace DeForest Stoltz on August 16, 1932, in Sterling, Colorado. Her love of roller coasters began in her youth when she worked at an amusement park, but her love of speed endured well into her senior years, as she still enjoyed outdoor adventures that included fishing, whitewater rafting, jet-skiing, parasailing, and four-wheeling. However, her favorite pastimes involved time spent with loved ones.

Joan spent the majority of her life as a dedicated wife, homemaker, and caregiver. She proudly sewed her children’s clothes and took pride in keeping her family well fed. Even in her 70s, she enthusiastically cared for her grandchildren and provided stay at home care for adults. From baby clothes to wedding dresses, from regular meals to holiday reunions, Joan was a talented seamstress and fantastic cook, whose gifts extended well beyond her household.

Joan graciously picked up where parents (and grandparents) left off. She was the embodiment of generosity, patience, love, and resilience. Births meant crocheted baby blankets. Birthdays meant cards and cakes. Any visit meant sweets: candy corn, Werther’s, fudgesicles, creamsicles. She shared stories. She shared events. She went on adventures. Regardless of the occasion, Joan lived a life guided by her unwavering faith.

Joan’s children warmly invite extended family and friends to the visitation on Friday, February 26, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. In light of current restrictions and the size of Joan’s family, her funeral, Saturday, February 27, must be private, and there will be a private graveside service at Walnut Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Voice of God recordings, PO Box 950, Jeffersonville, Indiana 47131. The family would also extends sincere thanks to Arkansas Hospice, located in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas.