Roberta “Bobbie” Earlene Smeltzer, 78, of Elkhart, IN passed away surrounded by her family on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

Roberta was born on September 30, 1948 in Elkhart to the late, Robert Earl McLain and Ruby Jean (Stouder) Duncan. She was married to the love of her life, Ronald Smeltzer on October 20, 1967 at Calvary United Methodist Church.

She is preceded in death by her brother in laws, Steve Davis and Richard Larson.

Bobbie is survived by her husband of 59 years, Ron Smeltzer of Elkhart; children, Sandy (Jody) Beebe of Elkhart, Kimberly (Andy) Jenkins of Nappanee, Jennifer (Jeremy Jellison) Smeltzer of Elkhart; 4 grandchildren, Justin Cook, Amanda (Ethan) Haldaman, Morgan Jenkins and Samantha Jellison; great grandson, Leland Haldamen; brothers and sisters, Earl (Sue) McLain, Timothy (Tracy) McLain, Robert McLain, Darrell Duncan, Janet Larson, Christine Davis and Darlene Duncan.

Bobbie graduated from Jimtown High School in 1966. As a teenager, she worked as a carhop at a drive-in in Elkhart, where she met her future husband, Ron.

Bobbie spent more than 45 years working in payroll. Throughout her career, she was employed by First National Bank, Electronic Commerce, Inc., and PayChoice.

In her spare time, Bobbie enjoyed crossword puzzles, baking, candy making, playing card games, and crafting with her family.

Her family was the most important part of her life. Bobbie was always there for them, whether they needed a shoulder to cry on, someone to celebrate with, or simply someone to spend time together. She especially cherished the holidays with her children and grandchildren and always went above and beyond to make Christmas special for her family.

Bobbie was known for her cheerful spirit and beautiful smile. Her warmth, love, and devotion to her family will be deeply missed.

The family would like to extend a thank you to the staff of Dunes Hospice for their love and support during a difficult time.

A Funeral Service for Bobbie will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514 with Pastor Jeremy Sarber officiating.

Visitation will be 2 hours prior to the start of the service from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the funeral home.

A graveside service will be at Prairie Street Cemetery at a later date.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514 is assisting the family.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to Dunes Hospice at www.duneshospicellc.com.

For those that wish to send a condolence, share a memory or order flowers may do so at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.