James Milton Wagner

James (Jim) M. Wagner age 80 of Knoxville, passed away Saturday, May 17, 2025 peacefully at home after a long illness. He was born in Knoxville and graduated from Morristown High School in 1963. Jim was drafted into the United States Army for the Vietnam War, served for 3 years, and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sgt. He was Sales Manager with Thermocopy for over 20 years. Jim enjoyed golfing, boating, hiking, and spending time outdoors. He was a licensed pilot and enjoyed recreational flying. He was an avid reader, loved cooking, and traveled extensively with his wife, Celeste. Jim loved animals of all kinds. He was the very best of us and was always thinking of others. Preceded in death by: parents, Howard M. & Ola Ruth Wagner; sister, Judy Wagner Knight. Survivors include: wife, Celeste H. Wagner, together for 37 years; brother-in-law, Doyle Knight (Carol Ann); sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Annette & Jim Hrach, Janice & Jeff List; aunts, Ruth McGill and Helen Clemmons; uncle, Don Lucia; nieces, Julianne Hammond (Bart) and Elizabeth Hrach; nephews, Thomas Hrach, Wally List, and Teddy List (Bri); great nephew, Carson Hammond; great niece, Eliza Hammond; many special cousins and close friends. Special thanks to his angels and caregivers, Shaunna & YaYa. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: Friends of the Blount County Animal Center, 233 Currie Ave. Maryville, TN 37804, 865-980-6244. Family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 PM, Thursday, May 29, 2025 at Smith Trinity Chapel. Family and friends will assemble for graveside service and inurnment at 8:30 AM, Friday, May 30, 2025 at East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery on John Sevier Hwy. Condolences may be shared at www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com. Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000 is servicing the family at this time.