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William Wagner Obituary
July 5, 2025
William "Bill" Taft Wagner, 85, passed away on Saturday, July 5, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Taft Jefferson Wagner and Ettis Johnson Wagner; his wife of 55 years, Joyce Ann Sarver Wagner; daughter, Susan Lee Wagner; brother, Fred Wagner; and sister, Lois Hodges.
Bill is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Wagner Helbling and her spouse, Tim Helbling; grandson, James Helbling; brothers, Allen, Lynn, and Larry Wagner; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was a loving and dedicated Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Friend. Bill was raised in Bluefield, Va., along with his wife, Joyce. They were married in 1962. He served in the United States Army assisting in the construction of the Panama Canal. Bill and Joyce moved to Troutville in 1967 and raised two beautiful children. He was a mechanical engineer for Norfolk Southern Railroad for over 30 years until he retired in 2001.
In retirement he enjoyed golfing, gardening, and spending time with his family and friends. Bill was a very active member of Mill Creek Baptist Church and enjoyed giving back to the community.
He could always be seen with a smile on his face and never met a stranger. He will be greatly missed.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025, in the sanctuary of Mill Creek Baptist Church with Pastor Danny Quirin officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Cancer Society. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfh.com.
Botetourt Funeral Home - Buchanan Chapel
(540) 254-3000
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Memories and Condolences
for William Wagner
Sponsored by Botetourt Funeral Home and Crematory - Buchanan Chapel.
4 Entries
Mike Faust
July 10, 2025
I worked with Bill and he was a great mentor to myself and many at the railroad. A genuine caring man that loved the Lord a true blessing to all he met.
Ron Hodges
July 9, 2025
Bill, you were always a very great person to work with at the railroad. You made the world a better place by being here. God speed my friend.
Shirley StClair Livengood
July 9, 2025
Kim, I have so many fond memories of your family when we all lived in Cloverdale. My 2 boys and you and Susan used to play together all the time specially on your swing set. Was your Dad still living in the house he built in Troutville? I didn't know that Susan had passed. Thinking of you.
John Harmon
July 9, 2025
So sad to hear of Bill's passing. We were friends and co-workers at the railroad for over 30 years. Will miss him, John
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Botetourt Funeral Home and Crematory - Buchanan Chapel14920 Lee Highway PO Box 1145, Buchanan, VA 24066
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