Johnie Myrel Mettlen, Sr.

          A private burial for Johnie Myrel Mettlen, Sr., 84, of Lufkin, was held at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Wells, Texas.

          Mr. Mettlen was born on February 13, 1939, in Wells, Texas, to the late S.W. Mettlen and Mabel Valeria Chandler, and died Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at his residence.

          Mr. Mettlen served in the United States Army. He was a member of Harbor Light Church in Lufkin. Mr. Mettlen first retired from Kerr McGee in New Mexico and then from Western Pulp Products in Jacksonville, Texas. He loved to sing southern Gospel hymns and his favorites songs were Amazing Grace and Sweet Beulah Land. Mr. Mettlen was a “Jack of all Trades” and enjoyed fishing. He loved working with his hands and had skills as a carpenter, welder, plumber, and electrician. Mr. Mettlen had great patience and was able to pass his skills on to his children. A quote from Mr. Mettlen to best describe him….”He loved his Lord the most.”

          He is survived by his wife, Rubye Faye Mettlen; children, Jenell Roberts, Myrel Mettlen, and Raquel Mettlen; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and sisters, Mary Powell and Ida Lou Stokes.

          Mr. Mettlen was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Lewis Mettlen and Lydia Moye.

          Shafer Funeral Home, Lufkin directors.

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