(Editor's note*)  Thank you everyone for your patience in the composing of this obituary. It had been previously posted prior to recieving all of the necessary information needed and the funeral home apologizes for anyone inadvertently left out or inconvenienced!

Ms. Stacey Leigh Lutz, 43, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly at the home of an acquaintence in Osceola on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 7:04 am. Her passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Born on May 15, 1981, in South Bend, Stacey was the beloved daughter of Susan E. (Ramon) Heyde-Maldonado of Elkhart, Indiana and John M. (Connie) Horvath of Angola, Indiana. She was a devoted mother to her four sons, Brayden A. Blackburn of Middleville, Michigan, Colin N. Lutz of Mishawaka, Indiana and Jayden T. and Nolan N. Swartz, also both of Mishawaka, Indiana whom she cherished beyond measure. Her love for her children was boundless, and she embraced motherhood with a fierce and unwavering devotion.

She is also survived by her siblings Tara L. (Rustin Beavers) Dahl of Azle, Texas, Stephanie A. (Tim) Suwyn of Middleville, Michigan Shameka A. Null of Middlebury, Indiana and Ramon S. Maldonado of Goshen, Indiana. She was the adoring aunt to nephew Declan Dahl of Azle, Texas and nieces Ella Suwyn of Middleville, Michigan and Kennedy and Madison Null of Middlebury, Indiana who will forever hold her in their hearts. In addition to her immediate family, Stacey leaves behind a large and loving circle of extended relatives and dear friends who were blessed by her radiant spirit and compassionate heart. She is preceded in death by her grandparents, Larry and Mary Heyde, Louis and Marge Horvath, and her uncle, Thomas G. Heyde.

A celebration of Stacey's beautiful life will take place at Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart, Indiana on Saturday, March 15, 2025, beginning with an informal viewing at the main funeral home building from 1:00 to 2:00 pm. Following that, her family will receive friends for a light luncheon in Stacey's honor from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Gathering Place, 1231 Johnson Street, Elkhart, which is located within the Billings Funeral Home complex. In accordance with her wishes, cremation will follow her celebration.

Stacey was a woman of many passions and talents. She worked in several local dining establishments over the years, always bringing warmth and laughter to those she served. However, her greatest joy in life came from spending time with her loved ones, as family and friendship were the cornerstones of her world. She was a proud alumna of Marian High School, where she shined as a talented volleyball player. Her competitive spirit and love for the game remained with her throughout her life, fueling her enthusiasm for sports—especially for her beloved Chicago Cubs and the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame.

Music was the soundtrack to Stacey's life, and she loved sharing it with others. Whether she was DJ-ing for a party, belting out her favorite tunes, or simply getting lost in a melody, music brought her pure joy. Equally passionate about films, she had a particular fondness for the horror genre. Classics like The Lost Boys, Friday the 13th, and any movie featuring sharks and unsuspecting beachgoers were among her favorites—always enjoyed with a thrill and a sense of adventure.

What set Stacey apart was her infectious energy and the way she embraced life with open arms. Her smile could brighten even the darkest of days, and her laughter was nothing short of contagious. She had an incredible gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved. She thrived on helping others, never hesitating to lend a hand or offer a kind word. Her compassionate nature was not just a trait—it was a way of life.

Above all, Stacey had a deep faith and believed in God's grace and love. While her absence is felt profoundly by those left behind, her family takes comfort in knowing that her beautiful soul has found eternal peace. Her light will continue to shine in the memories of those who loved her, and her spirit will live on in the laughter, music, and kindness she so effortlessly spread throughout her life.

Though we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the incredible person she was. Stacey's legacy is one of love, joy, and an unyielding passion for life. Her memory will forever be a cherished blessing to those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Rest easy, sweet Stacey. You are deeply loved and will never be forgotten.