Peter James Wagner

Mr. Peter James Wagner, age 87, of Thomaston, GA, passed away Sunday, January 22, 2023, at Upson Regional Medical Center. Jim, as he was better known, was born on October 12, 1935, in Pittsburgh, PA to Peter J. and Genevieve (Vilsack) Wagner.

 

Jim is survived by his loving wife Betty Wagner, adored sister Carole Kren of Jacksonville, FL, beloved brother Kenneth Wagner of California, devoted daughter and son-in-law Laura and Donnie Perry of Barnesville, GA, and loving son Peter James Wagner II of Worcester, MA. Jim's family included cherished grandchildren, Amy Perry (Patrick Boehm), Ryan (Kristy) Perry, and Brian (Kristie) Nelson, and treasured great grandchildren, Blake Perry, Kyle Nelson, Easton Perry, Chandler Perry, Hudson Perry, Skylar Lightsey, Reese Lightsey, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

 

Upon graduating from Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, Jim joined the US Army. After his duty in the military was complete, Jim was recruited by the Central Intelligence Agency. Jim served with the CIA for 29 years until he retired and moved to Thomaston, GA with his family in 1986. In Thomaston he began a new life learning how to raise cattle, grow pecans, and pursue his passion for learning new things.  A true Renaissance man, Jim was a member of Mensa, a published author, beekeeper, winemaker, sailor, photographer, pilot, bird watcher, and accomplished wood worker.  He built several stringed instruments, furniture, RC airplanes, and an experimental aircraft. 

 

Jim contributed to his new community by serving as a member of the Upson County Tax Assessor's Board, the Georgia Cattleman's Association, and the Georgia Farm Bureau. Recognized as a leader for his 24 years of service on the Thomaston-Upson County Airport Authority in November, Jim helped expand the Thomaston-Upson County Airport from a small community airport into a thriving regional airport.  

 

Memorial services for Mr. Wagner will be held Friday, January 27, at 2:00 PM, in the chapel of Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Friday from 1:00 until 2:00 PM at Fletcher-Day Funeral Home. 

 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org <http://stjude.org>).

 

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.