Ellie Jo Metzger

Ellie Jo Eckert Metzger, 49, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, after courageously battling cancer for sixteen years. Ellie was born on January 22, 1976, in Huntington, Ellie was the beloved daughter of Nancy (Ray) Bonebrake, and Jim Eckert (and his late wife, Connie Eckert). She grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and siblings: Melanie (Brad) Hull, Pete Eckert, Jennifer (Dennis) Vigar, Shelly Sands, Scott (Gina) Sands, and Stacy (Paul) Knipscheer; Ellie is also survived by her Grandmother, Nita Yordy of Huntington, IN; her 12 nieces and nephews, she was lovingly known as “Aunt Ellie,” a role she cherished dearly and her beloved dog Gertie. Ellie is preceded in death by her grandparents, Eugene & Peggy Drabenstot, Bernard & Ruby Eckert, and Noel Yordy. Ellie graduated from Huntington North High School in 1994 and went on to pursue her dream of driving trucks. Whether hauling grain or operating a dump truck for Zahm Excavating, she found true joy and purpose behind the wheel. Ellie had previously driven trucks for Farmer Grain, Cunningham Ag, and Fausz Tucking. Animals were at the center of Ellie’s life. Horses were her greatest passion, from her days in 4-H to her membership with the American Quarter Horse Association and the American Pinto Horse Association. She found peace on trail rides and comfort in the quiet company of her horses. For nearly three decades, Ellie and her beloved horse, Follie, shared a connection that could only be described as extraordinary. Follie was more than a horse—she was Ellie's confidant, her steadfast friend, and her companion through the changing seasons of life. Ellie and Follie are reunited at last. The boundaries that once kept them apart dissolve, and together they roam free—two old friends, side by side, just as it was always meant to be. Ellie also adored dogs; every one of them was loved and spoiled, especially Gertie, who will carry on Ellie’s spirit of loyalty and love. An avid outdoorswoman, Ellie looked forward to spring turkey hunting trips with friends, often traveling to nearby states. She relished the hunt, but even more, she treasured sharing her knowledge and passion for the outdoors, keeping her traditions alive. Ellie met her long battle with cancer with extraordinary courage and strength. Surrounded by the love of family and friends, she remained determined and resilient, never losing her sense of humor, warmth, or grit. She will be remembered for her perseverance and her deep love for others. If Ellie could offer a final piece of wisdom, it would be this: “Be silly, energetic, selfless, resilient, compassionate, forgiving, loyal, loving, and doglike. Be like Gertie.” Visitation will be from 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Adkins Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington, IN. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at Adkins Bailey-Love Mortuary. There will be one hour of visitation prior to the service. Burial will be in Gardens of Memory in Marion. Preferred memorials to, Camp Red Cedar in care of Adkins Bailey-Love Mortuary, 35 West Park Drive, Huntington, IN, 46750. Please sign the online guest book at www.baileylove.com. Adkins Bailey-Love Mortuary is honored to serve the family of Ellie Jo Eckert-Metzger.