Donna "Joan" Wagner

Donna "Joan" Wagner, 83, born April 10, 1942, in Ronceverte, WV, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by loved ones. She leaves behind wonderful memories of devotion to her family, service to others and the forgiving love of Christ demonstrated in every relationship she had.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Harold Wooten. They shared a life of growing together and finding ways to make a difference in the lives of others. Also, her parents, C.N. and Wanda Morgan, sister Mary Long and brother Argil Morgan were predeceased. She is survived by her sister Vivian Baldwin and her only child Donna Fritz (David), five grandchildren: Cutler Fritz of Gainesville, Brady (Ali) Fritz of Ocala, Jacob Fritz of Dunnellon, Kasey Fritz (Chevy) of Weirsdale and Rachel Fritz of Ocala. The sunshine of her later years were her Great grandchildren, Ashton, Sam, Eliza, Shiloh and Branch! Joan's favorite moments were weekly family dinners when they were all present. Two people she loved like daughters are Samantha Smith and Debbie Woods. They brought deep joy and friendship to her during her life.

In her early years, Joan worked hard to build a better life for her family and loved ones. Her last job was that of Sales Manager for Liberty National Life Insurance Co. In those days agents still went door to door for sales and collections. Over the years, she adopted no less than 9 elderly people she met during her work. She became caregiver for each one as she discovered they were old, alone, afraid and had no one to watch over them. She became their angel, providing for them as if they were her own parents.

If you were a child, an elderly person or a dog you had her heart!

All dogs and children were in her lap within moments of her entering the room. She taught Sunday School and countless children left her class knowing the price Jesus paid for us, quoting scripture and reciting all the books of the Bible. Many of those children kept in touch with her all her life, thanking her for making them felt seen, loved and valued.

Joan's favorite vacation was to simply return to the hills of WV where she grew up. Visiting her friends and relatives was a special joy to her. Joan and Harold had a gospel singing group that included her sisters and brothers-in-law, and they traveled all over the southeast singing gospel music. In her later years she served Fort Douglas Baptist Church with all her heart.

She married Larry Wagner in 2017, and he took her on many trips. She felt like a princess and enjoyed their time together so much. Sadly, he passed in 2020.

She leaves a legacy of love for others, of sacrifice and an example of demonstrating God's love for people in meaningful ways.

She was one of a kind, with a heart that knew no end to caring for other people and a sense of humor that lifted you up just to be around her. She was a wonderful example of grace and mercy, and she will be deeply missed by her family and friends.