Josephine "Devora" Wagner

Josephine "Devora" Wagner obituary

Josephine "Devora" Wagner

Josephine Wagner Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Hartson Funeral Home - Hales Corners on Aug. 26, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Josephine "Josie" Wagner

March 9, 1931 – August 20, 2025

Josephine Wagner, lovingly known as Josie, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025, at the age of 94.

Josie was born on March 9, 1931, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Elena Avila and Joseph Devora.

A few years later, her family moved to Mexico, where she was raised and completed her schooling.

In 1958, Josie returned to Milwaukee to work and reconnect with the place of her birth. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Richard, at a YMCA dance. The two quickly realized they were meant to be together, and after a brief engagement, they were married on January 3, 1959. Their devoted marriage lasted 59 years until Richard's passing in 2018. Together, they raised three sons with love and dedication.

Josie was a woman of deep faith and kindness, known for her warm heart and unwavering devotion to her family and her Savior, Jesus Christ. She was a light to everyone who knew her-gracious, compassionate, and always ready to share a smile or lend a helping hand.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Richard, her parents, and her brother Jamie Devora.

Josie is survived by her children: Rich (Barb) Wagner, Dave (Christie) Wagner, and Dan (Kendra) Wagner; her cherished grandchildren: Grant (Allison) Wagner, Paige (Kevin) Black, Josh (Isabelle) Wagner and Luke, Ben, Nick, and Jack Wagner; as well as many nieces, extended family members and dear friends.

Josie leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and strength. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the joy of knowing her.

________________________________________

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Josephine's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Josephine Wagner's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Josephine Wagner's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?