Emma Suzie Wagster

Suzie Wagster, age 79, went to her heavenly home Friday, March 26, 2021 with her husband and children by her side.

Suzie lived a full life filled with love, laughter, hard work, and kindness. Her life began in Jellico, TN where she was born to the late Harold and Grace Hackney Beever Moon. Suzie graduated from Jellico high school prior to attending East Tennessee State University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Education and was president of her Alpha Delta Pi sorority. Suzie was tenacious in almost everything she did and she was passionate about her education, attaining her Masters from the University of Louisville. She carried that passion to her students, teaching SAT Prep. and Special Education over 26 years across Tennessee, Kentucky, and Texas. During this time Suzie met the love of her life Richard and they raised two beautiful children together. After living in Kingsport, Moorestown, and Murfreesboro, they moved from Tennessee to Kentucky where they lived in Ft. Mitchell and then Louisville. Richard’s career at State Farm then took them to Charlottesville, VA and then to Dallas, TX where Suzie (who loved football) gained an affinity for the Dallas Cowboys. Finally, they retired and returned to Richard’s home town of Columbia, TN. She was not only passionate about teaching but also outreach and volunteering. Suzie was active in multiple programs and associations such as President of the Student’s Club, President of Keep Maury Beautiful, member of the James K. Polk Association, and the Graymere Ladies Association. She was always searching for ways to better her community and serve those around her. She was also a member of a bridge club turned group of lifelong cherished friends.

Suzie was the type of person who was unashamed of showing love. She loved to laugh and had a contagious smile often while being unashamedly silly with those who knew her best. Suzie was a bright person that seemed to light up whatever room she was in, lifting others up. She absolutely adored animals, and working in the yard. She loved to be outdoors spending time golfing on beautiful days. More than anything the light of her life was her family. She was married 56 years to her loving devoted husband, and was a fantastic mother and grandmother. Her home was characterized by love and laughter. Suzie Wagster lived a life that improved the world around her. She is loved more than anything by her family and will be dearly missed by all that knew her.

Suzie is survived by her husband: Richard Wagster; daughter: Grace Anne (Wagster) Lofton and husband Will Lofton; son: Sam Wagster and wife Gillian Lisée; grandchildren: Priscilla Lofton, Karis Lofton, and Liesl Lofton. She is preceded in death by her parents, sister: JeanEtta Moon; grandparents: Henrietta Hackney Beever and Edward Joseph Beever; Emma Davidson Moon; Firman Moon.

The family will visit with friends Wednesday, March 31, 2021 from 12:00 until the memorial service begins at 1:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Columbia.

Memorial contributions can be made in Suzie’s name to Jellico United Methodist Church, First United Methodist church in Columbia Building Fund, Keep Maury Beautiful, or the James K. Polk Association.

The family requests that guests in attendance please wear a mask and observe social distancing.

Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family online at www.williamsfh.com .