Carolyn Sue Wagher

Carolyn Sue (Steele) Wagher was born on September 30th, 1937, in Blackwell, Oklahoma, to the late Alvin Charles and Laura Evelyn (Dirham) Steele. She passed away on March 2nd, 2025, at the age of 87 in Wichita, Kansas, surrounded by her family, including her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She grew up with her siblings Verle, Berwyn, Jana, and Charlene.

Finding love early in life, she shared a special bond with Robert Wagher, a childhood friend who often took her to the movies on his bicycle. Their friendship blossomed into a lifelong partnership, and they married on January 4th, 1956. Together, they raised four children: Gary, Dennis, Vickie, and Staci.

Her career in retail sales, particularly at Montgomery Wards, where she eventually retired, was marked by dedication and hard work. She also took pride in being an Avon representative, a constant babysitter for those in need, and a beloved parishioner at 47th Street Church of Christ.

Family time was precious, and she enjoyed watching game shows like Wheel of Fortune, The Price is Right, Let's Make a Deal, and Jeopardy. When the house was quiet, she loved immersing herself in westerns such as Gunsmoke, The Waltons, and Bonanza.

Selflessness defined her character. Always soft-spoken and loving, she was a constant presence at her children's and grandchildren's events, whether it was PTA meetings, scouts, or sports. Her commitment to others extended beyond her family, as she participated in the March of Dimes and opened her home to those in need.

Special occasions and holidays were always celebrated with joy, whether it was a picnic at the park for Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas. She ensured that everyone had a good time and received what they wanted, making sure her children always felt loved and cared for.

Survived by her children Dennis Wagher and Staci Brown, 10 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren, her legacy of love and kindness will be cherished by all who knew her.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Alvin and Laura Steele; husband, Robert Van Wagher; son, Gary Wagher; daughter, Vickie Willey; brothers, Verle Steele and Berwyn Steele; and sisters, Charlene Warren and Jana Strotz.

A visitation for Carolyn will be held Monday, March 10, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM with a funeral service at 1:00 PM, followed by a graveside service in the Garden of the Lord's Prayer, Lot 227C. All at Resthaven Mortuary and Gardens of Memory,11800 West Highway 54, Wichita, KS 67209.