Maureen "Moe" Wagner

Maureen "Moe" Wagner, a cherished and vibrant soul known for her wit, compassion, and boundless spirit, passed away on May 2, 2026, after a fierce and brief battle with cancer. Born on November 19, 1959, Maureen’s life was marked by dedication, love, and a remarkable capacity to brighten the lives of those around her. 

A proud graduate of Liverpool High School, Maureen went on to earn her Bachelor's Degree, demonstrating the smart and driven nature that defined much of her life. She devoted 37 years of her career to the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Central New York Developmental Services Office (OPWDD CNYDSO), where she touched countless lives with her humanitarian spirit and steadfast commitment to service.

In retirement, Moe went onto build numerous friendships in her new found love of pickleball. These relationships transformed her life into something spectacular. Pickleball aside, she traveled all over to places not limited to Greece, Portugal, Nashville, Bethlehem and yearly extended vacations in Florida with her extended Pickleball Family. They may or may not have only traveled to these places to play pickleball. This group of people including her Softball Family, Boating Family, Pitch Family, past coworkers and childhood friends all hold an extremely special place in Moe’s heart. 

Most recently, Maureen became of member of the Board of Visitors with OPWDD to continue on with her efforts in enriching the lives of people with developmental disabilities. She found great fulfillment in advocating and being the voice for people who may not have one. 

Anyone who knew Maureen could attest to her larger-than-life presence, infectious laugh, and open-mindedness. She was not only incredibly funny but also deeply caring, always willing to go out of her way to help anyone in need. Her personality was a bright beacon in any room, blending intelligence with warmth and humor in a way that left lasting impressions. 

Maureen’s passions outside of her career were equally vivid. She relished pickleball, golfing, traveling, and boating, embracing every opportunity to enjoy life’s adventures. Holidays held a special place in her heart, especially Halloween, when she delighted in decorating and often prepared well more food than anyone could eat, a testament to her generosity and love for bringing people together.

She is survived by her devoted spouse, David Wagner, to whom she was married for 35 years, and her children Jordan George (her husband, Dominick) and Patrick Poirier. Maureen’s granddaughter, Lena George, who she affectionately considered the light of her life, was a constant source of joy. Her siblings Kevin Reilly; Brian Reilly and his wife Maureen; Kathleen Brown; Sheila Johnson and her husband Jerry; and Mary Lynn "Babe" Campbell (Bob), along with several nieces and nephews, who will carry forward her legacy of love, laughter and strength.

Maureen leaves behind memories held dear by many and stories that will live on creating laughter for a lifetime. She was predeceased by Jennifer and Daniel Poirier, her mother Margaret Hughes, her father James Reilly, and most recently, her beloved niece Tracy Brown.

Visitation to honor Maureen’s extraordinary life will be held on May 8, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, located at 705 N Main St, Syracuse, NY 13212. The memorial service will follow at 7:00 PM on the same day at the same location, officiated by Rev. Joseph Zareski. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Maureen are invited to come together in remembrance of her kindness, humor, and enduring spirit.

Maureen "Moe" Wagner’s life was a remarkable story of love, resilience, and devotion, not just in her many years of compassionate service, but in every joyful and generous moment she shared with those around her. Her legacy of selflessness, sense of humor, love of people and devout faith in the Lord will remain in the hearts of all her knew her.

The family would like to thank all of the hospital staff, caregivers and medical workers responsible for providing Maureen care through her short but mighty battle with cancer. A special thanks to Jeremy Johnson for being the rock in her final days.

The family would also like to thank friends and family that have reached out and provided support through the biggest battle of Moe’s life.