James Metzger Obituary

James C. "Jim" Metzger

November 18, 1939 - March 12, 2026

Trenton, Illinois - James C. "Jim" Metzger, 86, of Trenton, went home to the Lord with family at his bedside and was reunited with his beloved wife, Carol, and his sons, James Jacob "Jay" "JJ" Metzger, and Joseph "Joe" Metzger on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

Jim was born November 18, 1939, in Trenton, a son of the late Wilbert and Lucille (nee Miller) Metzger. He married Carol Metzger (nee Fink) on July 4, 1964, in Belleville and she preceded him in death on March 4, 2025.

In addition to his parents, wife, and sons, Jim was preceded in death by his sister, Gloria (Lawrence "Rusty") Maue; parents-in-law, George and Cecilia (nee Wurz) Fink; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, George Burd, Rosemary Reeves, Lucy Frisby, Margie Oliver, and Judie Joellenbeck.

Jim is survived by his sister, Jeanne Burd of Brooksville, FL; nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and caretaker, Tammy Macnutt.

Jim proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army. During his service, he earned the Good Conduct Medal, Sharpshooter Badge, and Expert Badge, and he often spoke with pride about his exceptional sniper skills.

Following his military service, Jim became a well-known and respected mechanic in the community. He was the owner and operator of Metzger Automotive in Trenton, where he worked for many years. He also worked at Auffenberg Ford in Belleville and later at Sam's Club in customer service, where he enjoyed visiting with and helping people.

Jim was a believer of the Christian faith. Throughout his life, he was active in his community and held memberships with the Trenton Jaycees, Trenton Fire Department, and St. Clair County CD. He enjoyed line dancing with the Kountry Kickers and looked forward to the occasional trip to the casino.

Known for his generous spirit, Jim had a big heart and was always doing something for someone else, putting others before himself. He was especially devoted to caring for his wife and was deeply dedicated to his family. His kindness, willingness to help, and strong sense of loyalty will be remembered by all who knew him.

Memorial Service will be Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Moss Funeral Home in Trenton with Pastor Bob Marsh officiating. Interment will follow at Trenton Cemetery.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Moss Funeral Home in Trenton.

In lieu of flowers, plants, and other gifts, memorials may be made to HSHS Hospice and will be received at the visitation or by mail at Moss Funeral Home, 105 S. Main St. Trenton, IL 62293, who is serving the family.