Judith Grace Wagnitz

Judith Grace Eckler Wagnitz, age 87, passed away Saturday, July 18, 2026, at her home in Southern Pines.

Judie was born on August 13, 1939, in Sandusky, Ohio, to the late Harold Eckler and Katherine Shutzie. 

She had many talents and volunteered many hours to several charities. She had a passion for reading and supporting others to fight illiteracy. Besides reading a multitude of books, she enjoyed the occasional crossword puzzle and being a member of the Red Hats. She is remembered by her family as a loving mother and a great cook. Her favorite quote, “This too shall pass,” is an example of how she didn’t dwell on hardships, but knew that all things, even suffering, would end.

Judie is preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Kenneth Eckler, and his wife, Amy. 

She is survived by her loving husband, Dr. John Wagnitz, Sr., MD-PA of 60 years; her two sons, John “Gabe” Wagnitz, Jr. of Wilmington, Karl “Tim” Wagnitz of Japan; her brother, Charles Eckler; Pam Carroll, mother of her granddaughter, Erin Wagnitz of Wilmington, and great-grandson, Zaiden of Wilmington. 

A celebration of Judie’s life will be held at Fry & Prickett Funeral Home in Carthage on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, beginning at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to one of the following charities: FirstHealth Hospice Foundation, SPCA, Duke Health, or Moore Buddies Mentoring & Moore Literacy Council. Please click the link below to donate.

Online condolences can be made at PinesFunerals.com.

Powell Funeral Home is honored to serve the Wagnitz family.