Joelyn Wagner

Joelyn Wagner, 92, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday afternoon, January 5, 2025, with her family by her side. She was born on March 20, 1932, in Youngstown, Ohio, to Stanley E. and Zala R. Anderson Davis.

Raised in Struthers, Joelyn was a proud graduate of Struthers High School, Class of 1950. Following her graduation, she worked in the main office of the Youngstown Sheet & Tube Company. On June 6, 1953, she married Robert J. Wagner, and in 1956, they established their home in Poland, where they joyfully raised four sons. Joelyn and Robert celebrated over 52 years of marriage until his passing on April 9, 2006.

Throughout her life, Joelyn’s church community played a significant role. A dedicated member of the Poland United Methodist Church, she actively participated in various church activities. She especially cherished her roles directing the Cherubs children's choir and providing transportation to those who needed help getting to appointments.

Joelyn loved her Bulldogs and was a devoted fan and supporter of Poland sports and the Poland marching band, attending games rain or shine well into her 90s. When her sons were in school and playing sports, she hosted many of the Bulldogs serving up her famous Chicken Noodle Soup that was fondly praised by her guest calling out, “Awesome Nanny!”

She enjoyed post-game pizza outings at Inner Circle, was a fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, and had a passion for singing the Star Spangled Banner. Holidays, particularly Christmas, were significant to Joelyn as she hosted family gatherings, always emphasizing that Baby Jesus was the reason for the season. She treasured the time spent with multiple generations of family at their Pymatuning homestead that her father built. 

Joelyn's incredible love for her family was evident. She loved spending time with her grandsons, and later her great-grandchildren. She adored her sons and held a special bond with her daughter-in-law, whom she considered her own daughter. Joelyn is survived by two loving sons, David (Tammy) Wagner and Brad Wagner, both of Poland; one sister, Patricia Repasky of Struthers; three grandsons, Weston (Amber) Wagner of Poland, Andrew (Nicole) Wagner of Fort Mill, South Carolina, and Jonathan (Christina) Wagner of Youngstown; four great-grandchildren, Blake, Brooks, Ava, and Adeline Wagner; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who were integral parts of her life, along with many close friends, whom she thought of as flowers in her garden of life.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her beloved husband, Bob; two sons, Christian and Richard Wagner; her brother, Jack Davis; her sister, Geraldine (David) Mullett; and her sister-in-law, Norma (Chuck) Wagner Uray.

Joelyn leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith. She touchingly remarked, “Please don't be sad or shed many tears, I'm going to meet my love at last after 19 years. A part of me went with him and now I am whole.”

A combined visitation and memorial service for Joelyn, and her son, Chris who passed away Tuesday, December 31,2024 will be held on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at the Poland United Methodist Church, located at 1940 Boardman Poland Road, Poland, OH 44514. The visitation will begin at 2:30 PM with the memorial service to follow at the end of visitation at 4:30 p.m. at the church. 

In Joelyn's name, memorial contributions may be made to the Poland United Methodist Church and in Chris' name, memorial contributions may be made to the Adult Rehabilitation Center of the Salvation Army.