James Andrew Wagner, Jr.

James Andrew Wagner Jr was born March 12, 1943 in Henderson, NC to the late Ann L Wagner and James Andrew Wagner Sr. He fell asleep in death on January 1, 2021. James was also preceded in death by his brother Daniel Jones Sr.

James Wagner, affectionately known as Big Daddy, Paw Paw, Butch, or Jimmy, had a statue and presence that was noticeable in any room he walked in. His deep voice would tell stories of past experiences as a kid, our history as a people, or his travels. He appreciated music and would often listen to Aretha Franklin, Sam Cooke, or jazz on his computer/television, or watching some of his favorite shows like NCIS series and Texas Ranger.

James moved to Richmond as a child and was a product of the Richmond City public school system, graduating in 1961 from Armstrong High School. James served 2 years as a clerk in the Army; he was stationed in Korea during the Vietnam war. Upon leaving the Army, he started his career at Craigys, eventually moving into selling insurance Metropolitan Life as well as Home Beneficial, and then to Dupont which he retired from. He then went on to work for AIG until retirement as well. He was a member of the Golden Gang (Armstong High School class of 61) reunion planning committee, member of a local Masonic Lodge, and a committee member of the Descendants of Wilbur-Primus Jones.

He is survived by 3 children; Alicia Clarke (son-in-law Steve Clarke), Jennifer Wagner, and Jason Brooks; 4 grandchildren, Dominick Slayton, Sydney Slayton, Nicholas Bonhomme, and Londyn Brooks; loving companion Marion Brooks; nieces Julie Coward, Jacquelyn Jones-Davie; nephews Donalvan Jones, Daniel Jones Jr, and Michael Long; grand-nieces and grand-nephews, cousins, classmates, and loving friends.

We, the family, offer genuine thanks and profound gratitude to everyone who has given support. Without your prayers and comforting words our loss would be unbearable.