Joan Lillian Wagner

Joan L. Wagner, 92, of Selinsgrove, peacefully entered eternal rest on February 12, 2026, at her residence at Brookdale Grayson View. She leaves a humble yet enduring legacy as devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, neighbor, and friend.

Joan’s loving spirit, steadfast loyalty, deep dedication, and endearing wit were at the heart of who she was, and nowhere were these qualities more treasured than within her family. Caring for others was both her calling and joy. She delighted in holiday gatherings, peaceful days at the Finger Lakes, and relaxing family vacations on the Outer Banks.

Born March 29, 1933 in Shamokin, she was the daughter of the late William and Sarah (Coutts) Bartlett and the older sister of her late brother, William Jr., whom she watchfully protected and frequently kept out of mischief.  She also shared a lifelong bond with her late cousin Jackie, whom she lovingly considered a sister. Together they filled their childhood with adventure, often enjoying the latest films at one of Shamokin’s three neighborhood theaters.

During her senior year at Shamokin High School, Joan began working in the office at Shroyer’s Dress Factory and occasionally served as a fitting model for New York City designers who partnered with the company. After graduating in 1951, she continued her work while dating her future adoring husband, Paul E. Wagner of Shamokin, as he was serving in the US Navy. They were united in marriage on June 7, 1952, beginning a remarkable 64-year partnership marked by love, laughter, and lighthearted banter until Paul’s passing in 2016.

Following their early married years in Shamokin and Harrisburg, they settled into their Selinsgrove home where they prospered over the next six decades. As a testament to her faithful nature, Joan devoted herself wholeheartedly to her roles as wife, mother, and homemaker, taking great pride in the home and family she nurtured.

An accomplished cook, Joan also enjoyed reading, movies, cross-stitching, and, above all, time spent with her growing family across generations. She was an active member of St. Paul’s UCC in Selinsgrove, serving in many capacities, from Sunday School to preparing and working at church dinners. She also served as an elected official at her district voting polls, and gave generously of her time at the Mustard Seed and Meals on Wheels.

In her final chapter, Joan was a beloved member of the Brookdale community, where her warmth and joyful spirit touched staff and residents alike. Her family would especially like to express heartfelt gratitude to Therese and the staff at Clarebridge, as well as the Geisinger Hospice team, for their dedicated care, compassion, and dignified presence.

Joan will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Joan is survived by her four children: David W. of Lewisburg; Tracey W. Wolfe and her husband, Randy, of Selinsgrove; Michael P. and his wife, Linda, of Winfield; and Andrew T. and his wife, Cindy, of Selinsgrove. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Adam T. Wolfe and his wife, Jill, of Mechanicsburg; Mallory N. Baker and her husband, Nevin, of Greensburg; Ryan S. Wagner and his girlfriend, Lacey Trautman, of Selinsgrove; Grace O. Wagner of Selinsgrove; and Joanna L. Wagner and her husband, Tyler Worman, of Selinsgrove; and by three great-grandchildren, Lillian, Vivian, and Declan.

A celebration of Joan’s life will be held on Sunday, March 1, at 2:00 p.m. at the V.L. Seebold Funeral Home, 601 N. High Street, Selinsgrove, with Rev. Dr. Dietmar Plajer officiating. The family will receive visitors and friends beginning at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s UCC, 400 Market Street, Selinsgrove, or to Geisinger Children’s Hospital in Danville.

Arrangements are by V.L. Seebold Funeral Home, Selinsgrove.

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