E. Kathleen Waggoner

E. Kathleen Waggoner (née Motter), age 79, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026, in Austin, Texas. Born on November 10, 1946, in Ashland, Ohio, she lived a life of unwavering love for her family and community.

Kathleen graduated from Ashland High School in 1964. She spent her career rooted in service and care for others. For 25 years, she worked as a cafeteria manager for Wooster City Schools in Ohio. She also enjoyed working part-time at the Wooster Walmart for five years.

Kathleen loved everyone unconditionally and gave freely of her time and energy. Whether volunteering in her community or offering a listening ear and thoughtful advice, she touched countless lives with her compassion and generosity.

Family was the center of Kathleen’s world. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Alisa Smith and Amber Danhauser of Leander, Texas; her cherished grandchildren, Austin and Laura Danhauser of Leander; and father of her children, Ron Waggoner of Wooster, Ohio. She also leaves behind her sister Darlene (Paul) Wertz of Ashland, Ohio; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Tierney and Evelyn Motter; and her brothers Larry and Robert Motter.

Kathleen found joy in life’s simple pleasures—reading a good book, cooking, playing bingo, volunteering and most especially spending time with family. She also loved to pay it forward and watch The Ohio State Buckeyes football. Her warmth radiated through every interaction; she truly was a light to those who knew her.

In honor of Kathleen’s generous spirit and lifelong love of learning and animals, the family requests that donations be made in her memory to one of the following organizations: Wayne County Public Library of Wooster (wcpl.info/support/donations), Friendtique–Friends of Hospice of Wooster (friendtique.org/donate), or Texas Humane Heroes of Leander (humaneheroes.org).

Arrangements are being made through Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home of Leander, Texas. Condolences can be left at www.wcfishleander.com.

The family would like to thank the staff at North Austin Medical Center, Dr. Bruce, Nicole Higginbotham NP, Beacon Hospice and the staff at Gracy Woods II nursing home for your unwavering care and support of our mother.

Mom, you are our sunshine and our only sunshine. We love you more and will miss you bunches. May your memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know you.