Ellen D. Wagner

Ellen D. Wagner, a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, peacefully passed on July 22nd. Born on March 1st, 1939, in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, Ellen's radiant personality and gracious nature touched the lives of those who knew her. She was the beloved wife of the late Maj. General, U.S. Army, Ret. Wayne F. Wagner, who predeceased her in 2017.

Ellen's legacy lives on through her six children and their families: Sally and her husband Steve Riendeau of Mendon; Wayne David and his wife Claudia Wagner of Cumberland, RI; Steven and his wife Patti Wagner of Weston; Susan and her husband Thomas Johnson of Mendon; Dr. Timothy and his wife Janice Wagner of Pearland, TX; and Christopher Wagner of Miami, FL. She was the adoring grandmother to thirteen grandchildren: Meaghan and Nick; Courtney and Paul; Wayne Benjamin and Kelly; Andrew and Elizabeth; Max and Bethany; Mark, Kristina and Ian; Brian, Joseph and Jennie; Ellen, Daniel, Abram, and Avery, as well as her six great-grandchildren.

A graduate of St. Clare High School in Woonsocket, RI, Ellen furthered her education by attending the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA. She was a dedicated educator in the Blackstone-Millville school district making meaningful connections with countless students.

Always willing to give of herself, Ellen was active in civic activities. During the time of her husband's command of the Massachusetts National Guard, Ellen proudly provided support to the families of service men deployed in combat. In her own community, Ellen was a longtime member of the Chestnut Hill Meeting House, the Mendon Historical Commission, and a longtime member of the choir and Women's club of St. Gabriel the Archangel Church (the former St. Michael's Church).

Ellen enjoyed traveling with her husband, family, and friends to experience new cultures, food, and people. She loved the relaxing nature of the great beaches of Cape Cod and Newport. She was a lifelong fan of New England sports, from cheering for the Red Sox and Walt Dropo in her early years to supporting the Celtics and Payton Pritchard this past year. A true Irishwoman, Ellen loved celebrations of all kinds. She loved being amongst friends and family to enjoy camaraderie, a song, laughter, and, of course, a delicious Manhattan. Above all, she possessed incredible enthusiasm for the passions of her children and grandchildren.

Her legacy is one of love, loyalty, and laughter. She leaves behind generations who adored her and carry forward her strength, humor, and pride in her roots. She will be missed deeply, but her spirit lives on in every Irish toast, family gathering, and shared smile.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 3 – 7 PM in the Buma Funeral Home, 101 N. Main St., Rte. 122, Uxbridge, MA.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 10 AM from the funeral home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM in St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish, 151 Mendon St., Upton.

Burial will follow in St. Paul's Cemetery, Gaskill St., Blackstone.