Vernon Ray Wagner

Vernon Ray Wagner of Mabank passed away on January 30, 2023. Vernon H Ray Wagner, born a scrappy little redhead in Fort Worth Texas, on March 7, 1951 to parents Harold H Wagner and Eleanor Sue (Snyder) Richert passed peacefully January 30, 2023 and was reunited with his beloved Carol Sue. Vernon was always a handful, especially as a young man. His love of adventure and baseball followed him throughout his life. In 1968 at the tender age of 17, he committed himself to the United States Army. A proud Jefferson County Platoon member. Soon after, he went to a Senior Prom where he had his first dance with Carol Sue. The love of his life. From that moment on this straight-laced conservative and carefree Cajun hippy were inseparable and married on September 13th,1969. After an adventure to Viet Nam he returned and began his life journey as a doting husband and devoted Daddy. Through the years of food fights, water fights, road trips and countless adventures and friends made he and Carol Sue built a beautiful life and raised a family together. Their girls were always the center of their world. Vernon was a special man to many. Above all, his favorite role was being Carol Sue's husband. No one could make them smile or laugh quite like each other. Even after 50 years together they could never be apart for long. Vernon was a loving Daddy to his girls, an adoring grandfather to his five grandbabies, an amazing son, brother and friend. God used Vernon to touch many lives with his love, humor, honesty and goodness. He was a beautiful example of the man you wanted in your corner. Vernon always had one of his unforgettable hugs, a smile or his infectious laugh for anyone who needed it. His quick wit and wicked sense of humor had anyone who had the privilege to know him laughing through tears at some point. Vernon was a man of God and his life was a testament to his faith and his growth throughout his lifetime. He is a man who is dearly loved, respected and honored among those who know him. Many hearts grieve the loss of one of the good ones. Vernon, however, would tell us to knock that crap off. He is right where he wants to be. Scooting across the dance floor hand in hand with his bride, Carol Sue. Both fully healed and rejoicing in their love for each other and our Savior making a place for when we are all reunited. In the wise words of Mr. Vernon Ray Wagner, never forget that "You are too blessed to be depressed.” Vernon is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol Sue and son in law Floyd White. He is survived by his daughter; Katherine and husband Chris Sleeper, their children, Peyton Rae and Krew Jaxon; Daughter Michelle White and significant other Terry Corder, her children Kaitlyn White and Fiancé Matt Chaney; Ashley and Husband LT. Andrew Dinmore; Shelby White. Sister Carla Richert; Brother Ivan Richert. Vernon also leaves behind a host of extended family and friends. Funeral service will be 10:30 am Saturday Febrary 4, 2023 at the Gun Barrel City First Church of the Nazarene with interment to follow at Baird Cemetery. Family will receive friends Friday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm February 3, 2023 at Gun Barrel City First Church of the Nazarene.

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Vernon Ray Wagner

March 7, 1951 - January 30, 2023