Joseph Hudson Wagner Sr.

Joseph Hudson Wagner, Sr., was born on October 20, 1951, and departed this life on June 8, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy shaped by love and the enduring bonds of family.
He was preceded in death by his son, Joseph Hudson Wagner, Jr.; his father, Joseph Donelson Hudson; his mother, Dionisia Esmeralda Wagner (née Shinnery); his stepfather, Edwin Wagner; and his sister, Lydia Ellison.
Left to celebrate his life and home-going are his loving daughter, Davita Starr (Arcenio) Valencia; Mary Fells, mother of Davita; his sisters, LeVetta Hudson and Lisa Hudson – with whom he shared unbreakable lifelong bonds; and his stepmother, Alma Hudson.
He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Gianna Valencia, Noah Valencia, and Josiah Valencia; and by Chrystal Lewis, mother of Joseph Jr.; along with other relatives and friends.
Joseph was a man who loved deeply and cared passionately for his family. He was known for being highly protective of those he held dear, always striving to show up for them in the ways he knew best. His life was not without its challenges, and along the way, he gathered wisdom and life lessons - some learned the hard way - that now stand as part of his enduring legacy.
He was perfectly imperfect - complex, flawed, and unapologetically himself. Those who knew him will remember his laughter, his strength, and the unmistakable presence he brought into every room.
Rest in peace, Joseph - your legacy lives on in love.

Cremation Services entrusted to Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Highland, IN.

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