Mary Joyce Wagner

A child of Irish immigrants, Mary grew up in Connecticut with three older brothers and one younger sister, all whom she cherished. She often shared stories of shenanigans with her siblings, Irish songs sung in the kitchen, and a multitude of good times shared with cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In 1963, Mary married the love of her life, Gary Wagner. The two met on a blind date, and the rest was history. They lived in numerous states including North Carolina, Hawaii, and Connecticut, depending on where he was stationed as a US Navy submariner. In 1967, the two moved to Texas when Gary was hired by Lockheed to support NASA at the Johnson Space Center. Mary always said, “I wasn’t born a Texan, but I got here as fast as I could!” In 1976 they founded the computer company CESI—an enterprise that remains family owned. Mary and Gary’s love story lasted for 33 years until his passing in 1996. Mary’s wedding rings remained on her finger until the day she passed.

Mary was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church in League City, Texas. Her faith in God was unwavering, and she was the perfect example of steadfast love to everyone in her life. Her greatest joy came from being a devoted wife and mother. She was an amazing mother to her two sons and daughter and was truly the glue that held everyone together. She made sure the family had dinner together around the table every night, never said “no” when asked for help, was a confidant, and was beloved by all her children’s friends. She was a “2nd Mom” to many kids in the neighborhood. She also cherished spending time with friends and formed bonds of sisterhood with ladies in her community. Her love of being together was reflected in the traditions she enjoyed most—summer trips to North Carolina and Connecticut to visit family, Thanksgiving camping trips, and sailing were among her favorite activities.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband Gary, her parents, her brother Austin Joyce and his wife Lois, brother Ed Joyce and his wife Gladys, and her brother-in-law Jim Fafalla.

Mary is survived by her children Erich Wagner and his wife Sharon, Kurt Wagner and his wife Ruth, and Andrea Svetlik and her husband Randy; her eight grandchildren Alex, Austin and his wife Taylor, Brian, Merlot, Nova, Evana, Rowan, and Erin; two great-grandchildren Cayden and Emily; her brother Anthony "Bud" Joyce II and his wife Lillian, her sister Anne Fafalla, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary will be remembered with deep respect and enduring gratitude for the life she lived and the family and community she held close. May she forever Rest in Peace.

Funeral arrangements are pending until Erich returns from his once-in-a-lifetime journey on the Tall Ship Elissa. The family will send information soon.