Mary L. Wagner

Mary Louise Wagner, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on August 1, 2025, at the age of 65, after a prolonged illness at Cayuga Medical Center. Known affectionately as Mary, she was born on July 24, 1960, in Albany, NY and brought joy and laughter into the lives of all who knew her.
Mary's life was marked by her dedication to her family, her sharp wit, and her creative spirit. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Bill Wagner; her son, Billy Wagner; her parents, George and Patricia Donnelly; and her cherished dog, Wee-Man. Despite these profound losses, Mary's indomitable spirit and sense of humor never waned, and she continued to be a source of strength and joy for her family.
Mary is survived by her devoted daughter, Patricia Cummins and her husband Edmund; her stepdaughters Kelly Houck and her husband Jeff; Kristen Wagner and her husband Spencer; and Nicole Keefer and her husband Chad. She was a proud and adoring grandmother to Connor, Gavin, Dallas, Riley, Maison, Gabby, and Makenna. Her legacy also lives on through her brothers Brian Donnelly and his wife Linda; Mark Donnelly; and George Donnelly and his wife Dee; her sisters Lisa Fox and her husband William; and Julie Inman and her husband Beau. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.
Mary served her community with distinction as a Postmaster for the United States Postal Service, where she retired after 30 years of dedicated service.
An avid player of cards and word games, Mary was infamous for her playful cheating and clever strategies. She found great joy in spending time with her grandchildren and her nieces and nephews where she would often make up stories, songs and entertaining anecdotes that would leave them in fits of giggles and wonder. She had a unique talent for making every moment memorable.
Mary's intelligence and humor were the hallmarks of her personality. She had a knack for making people feel seen and heard, and her approach to life's challenges was an inspiration to all. Her laughter was infectious, her advice was sought after, and her presence was comforting.
As we say goodbye to Mary Louise Wagner, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love, laughter, and treasured moments. Her funny, intelligent, and creative spirit will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Mary's impact on her family will continue to be felt for generations to come and her stories and songs will echo into the hearts of those who loved her.
On Friday, August 8, 2025, at 12 noon a Service will be held at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church.
905 N Decatur St. Watkins Glen, NY 14891. The family will host a luncheon following the service at the Wayne American Legion, 4926 Bath Rd, Dundee NY 14837.
The family will be honoring Mary by wearing her favorite color red for the services.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a memorial donation to the Tyrone Volunteer Fire Department. Without the hard work and dedication of the Tyrone Volunteer Fire Department our family would not have had the opportunity to spend the precious last days with her.