Claretta Lafferty Metzger

Claretta Lafferty Metzger, 86, of Greenwood, SC, died Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the Hospice House of Hospice & Palliative Care of the Piedmont. She was born in Freeport, Illinois to the late Perry O. and Dorothy Miller Lafferty. 

Claretta lived a happy life with interests including music, books, bridge and her love of animals. She graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in music performance and education. After relocating to Fredonia, NY, Claretta completed a master’s degree in music education at Fredonia State University. She was the director of the high school band in Fredonia for 28 years. Upon retirement, Claretta was hired to play flute in the Hilton Head Chamber Music Ensemble in Hilton Head, SC where she lived for 16 years before moving to Greenwood, SC. 

Claretta is survived by her sons, Mark Metzger of Westfield, Massachusetts, Greg Metzger (Lori) of Jacksonville, Florida; a granddaughter, Melissa Metzger; cousins, Elaine Miller of Westminster, CA and Stephen Lafferty (Susan) of Freeport, Illinois; and the father of her sons, William J. Metzger of Oregon. 

No services are planned. 

Memorial contributions, in memory of Claretta, may be sent to the Greenwood Humane Society, PO Box 49776, Greenwood, SC 29649. 

A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com

Harris Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Abbeville is assisting the Metzger family.