John LeRoy Metro, 88, of Salina, KS, passed away peacefully at home on March 6th, 2026 with family by his side. He was born March 17, 1937 in Concordia, KS, to John and Lillie Mae (Dorais) Metro.

Father Metro was the oldest of six children.  Brother- Lewis Metro (Judy), Sister- Karen Cox (Don), Sister- Lynette Williamson (Eddie), Brother- Ron Metro (Ellie), Sister- Janet Winter (Terry).

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lillie Mae Metro; his brother, Lewis Metro; his sister, Karen Cox; nephew, Steve Miller; brother-in-law, Don; and brother-in-law, Terry.

He is survived by his sister, Lynette Williamson (Eddie); brother, Ron Metro (Ellie); sister Janet Winter; and 12 nieces and nephews.

He knew at a very early age he wanted to dedicate his life to God and became ordained as a Catholic Priest on June 1st,1963 at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Salina. Father Metro served in many parishes in the Salina Diocese. He was active in many aspects of his faith such as Parish Priest, Family Counseling, Spiritual Guidance, Chaplain at Marymount College, and helping create and conduct SEARCH Weekends for Young Christians.

One of Father Metro’s favorite past times was to travel. He has traveled all around the US; including to China and the Great Wall, Rome to see the Pope, He took his Mom to Montreal, Canada, to visit the chapel of Brother André Bessette after he followed his family history to discover that he is related to Brother André Bessette whom was later canonized as Saint Bessette!

Father Metro was always the guiding light of his family and will be greatly missed.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Salina, with a vigil service beginning at 7. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 27, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, with Bishop Gerald Vincke presiding. Inurnment will follow at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Salina.

Memorials can be made to Catholic Charities in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N 8th St, Salina, KS  67401.