Margaret O'Neil Chance Metz

Margaret O'Neil Chance Metz, a cherished resident of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, at the age 94. Born on December 1, 1930, in Hazelhurst, Mississippi, Margaret lived a life characterized by her dedication to family, community, and her beloved profession as a registered nurse.

Margaret spent her younger years in Hazlehurst, MS moving to Laurel, MS when her parents gave up farming. She proudly graduated from George S. Gardiner High School in 1950 and went on to complete her nursing education at South Mississippi Charity Hospital School of Nursing in 1953. After passing the state board exam, she became a registered nurse, initiating a fulfilling 40-year career. For about a decade, she worked at Charity Hospital in Laurel before moving to Gulfport in 1963. There, she continued her nursing journey at the Gulfport VA and Biloxi VA hospitals until her retirement in 1993. Throughout her career, Margaret received several awards, reflecting her commitment and excellence in her field.

Margaret was not only an accomplished nurse but also a devoted family member. She was married to her beloved husband, John Philip "Jack" Metz, for nearly 44 years, nurturing a partnership that exemplified love and mutual respect. Together, they created a warm and loving home filled with joy. She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Ann Wheeler (Ed), and her step-sons, John Metz (Donna) of New Jersey, Glenn Metz (Barbara) of Pennsylvania, and Doug Metz (Lisa) of New Jersey. She was a proud grandmother to Stephanie Bowers (Andrew) of Texas; Casey Wheeler (Rachel), Tyler Wheeler (Morgan), and Haley McCool (Josh), all of Gulfport; Allison Holeman (Kyle) of New Jersey; Adam Metz (Sami) of New Jersey; Brian Metz (Lenora) of New Jersey; Rebecca Roth (Kyle) of Pennsylvania; Laura Metz of Pennsylvania; Hunter Metz of New York; Kayla Metz of New Jersey; and Trevor Metz of New Jersey. In addition, she delighted in the company of her 11 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Her parents, Walter Chance and Ebbie Beasley Chance, along with two brothers and four sisters, preceded her in death. She was also predeceased by her first husband, Desmond Curtis Garner, Jr., the father of her daughter.

Margaret was a member of Trinity Methodist Church, where she found community and fellowship. She cherished her life on the coast, often remarking while driving down Highway 90, "We live in such a pretty place!" Her love of the coastal lifestyle was evident in her hobbies; she enjoyed cooking, and reading cookbooks and was a great cook, always wanting to ensure that everyone had plenty to eat! Her passion for cooking was matched by her love of fishing, where she caught many flounders from local piers. Additionally, she took pleasure in watching football on television, rooting for her favorite teams with enthusiasm.

In her later years, Margaret received loving care from the staff at Seashore Highlands Memory Care, Greenbriar Nursing Center and Vital Caring Hospice, who made a significant difference in her quality of life.

To honor her memory, visitation will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM, both taking place at Trinity United Methodist Church, located at 5007 Lawson Ave, Gulfport, MS 39507. Interment will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens, 8910 Carl Legett Rd, Gulfport, MS 39503, concluding at 4:00 PM.

Margaret O'Neil Chance Metz's legacy lives on in the hearts of those she loved and cared for throughout her life. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

A donation may be made to the Alzheimer's Association in Margaret's name in lieu of flowers if desired.