Linda Lou Cottrell
October 8, 1937 – September 8, 2025

Linda Lou Cottrell, 87, of Elkhart, peacefully passed away on Monday, September 8, 2025, with her loving family by her side at The Harmony in Elkhart.

Born on October 8, 1937, in Mishawaka, Indiana, Linda was the daughter of the late Vernon and Evelyn Jane (Snyder) Searer. She was also preceded in death by her infant sister, Sharon Searer, and beloved sons, David G. Cottrell and Charles D. Cottrell.

Linda lived a life filled with grace, creativity, and deep devotion to her family and faith. A gifted musician and poet, she found joy in singing, writing, sewing, and playing the organ. Her love for music led her to serve as choir director at Willow Creek United Methodist Church, where her leadership and voice inspired many. Linda was a proud graduate of Mishawaka High School, Class of 1955.

She is survived by her children: Deb Metzger (Jason Roach) of Roundhead, OH, Diana Cornett (Kenneth) of Cedar Grove, Tennessee; and Charles "Andy" Cottrell (Melanie Hein) of South Bend. She is also lovingly remembered by her stepdaughter, Charlene Lanning (Gale) of Grand Rapids, Michigan; 11 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; several great, great grandchildren, her dear brothers: Darryl Searer (Judy) of Fort Myers, Florida; Larry Searer (Dora) of Elkhart; Glenn Searer (Bonnie) of Elkhart; and Craig Searer (Lannette) of Elkhart.

Linda's life was marked by compassion, creativity, and unwavering love for those around her. She will be deeply missed by all who had the blessing of knowing her.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 11, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Chapel Hill Funeral Home in Osceola, Indiana. A funeral service will follow at 10:00 a.m., with interment immediately afterward at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.ChapelHillMemorial.com