Ms. Johnietta Wagner

Mother Johnietta Arletha Drone Wagner, affectionately known as “Lady J” and “Aunt Johnny,” was born on June 2, 1931, in Eastman Township, Pulaski County, Arkansas, to the union of Johnny and Sylvia Thomas Drone. She was the fourth child born into a blessed family of thirteen. From an early age, she exemplified strength, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to family—qualities that defined her life and legacy. On July 21, 1966, she was united in holy matrimony with Theodis Mack Wagner Sr. Together, they raised three children: Theodis Mack Wagner Jr., Tina M. Wagner, and Le’Anton M. Wagner. Their home was firmly rooted in faith, love, and generosity. Mother Wagner loved her immediate and extended family immensely and opened her heart and home freely—often taking in siblings, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren whenever there was a need. Her home was a true refuge, and it was widely known, “Aunt Johnny got you.” In 1960, Mother Wagner relocated to Kansas City, Missouri, where she began a long and honorable career with Faultless Company. She worked faithfully for 32 years, retiring in May 1993. Her dependability, integrity, and strong work ethic earned her the respect and admiration of supervisors and coworkers alike. Mother Wagner gave her life to the Lord at an early age. She was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ according to Acts 2:38 and was filled with the precious gift of the Holy Ghost as the Spirit gave utterance. Her faith was not merely spoken—it was lived daily through humility, service, and obedience to God. She faithfully served at Bethel Pentecostal Church (later New Bethel Church) from 1961 to 1991 under the leadership of Pastor Rosie Summer and Pastor Kenneth Neal. In 1991, she joined her brother, Pastor Willie Drone Sr., at The House of Refuge, where she served diligently and faithfully as President of the Mothers’ Board, as well as in the kitchen ministry. She later supported her nephew, Pastor Cleveland T. Drone, during the establishment of his ministry and continued her service. Mother Wagner remained a devoted member of The House of Refuge International Ministries (now called The House KC) under the leadership of Pastor Leron Johnson Sr. until her health declined. Known for her servant’s heart, she labored wherever needed and was lovingly remembered by the children as “The Candy Lady.” Mother Wagner was admired for her grace, impeccable style, and beautiful hats. Family gatherings—especially Thanksgiving and Christmas—were sacred to her. Her table was always full, her home always warm, and her presence always comforting. Surrounded by family, Mother Johnietta Arletha Drone Wagner peacefully passed away on January 17, 2026. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Theodis Mack Wagner Sr.; her son, Theodis Mack Wagner Jr.; her grandsons Antonio Wagner, LaKevion Wagner, Marquis Wagner, Devin Harris, Dominique Kemp, and Darrell Kemp; her granddaughter Dililah Wagner; her goddaughter Betty McCullen Smith; her parents, Johnny and Sylvia Thomas Drone; her sisters Maggie Holland, Izetta Payne, and Nancy Acklin; and her brothers Elder Isaiah Drone Sr., Solomon Drone, Silas Drone, and Pastor Willie Drone Sr. She leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving daughter Tina M. Wagner-Sykes of Kansas City, Missouri; her devoted son, and best friend Le’Anton M. Wagner (Micky/Leigh) of Atlanta, Georgia; her ten grandchildren: Mark (Shalece) Wagner, Yolonda Wagner, Cherrie Kemp, Aisha (Charles) Smith, Jevon Wagner, Tameka Wagner, La’Tasha Wagner, Gregory (Sharice) Wagner Robinson, and Arrion (Garron) Haynes; three brothers; Elder Daniel Drone of Charlotte, North Carolina, Suffragan Bishop Lugene Drone of North Little Rock, Arkansas, Deacon Freddie (Betty) Drone of Kansas City, Missouri; one sister, Missionary Sylvia Drone Bradshaw of Little Rock, Arkansas; Four sisters-in-laws; Missionary Dorothy Drone of Blue Springs, Missouri, Lady Lois Garry, and Mrs. Barbara Noble of Jacksonville, AR, and Mrs. Norma Duckery of Chicago, IL; one brother-in-law: Mr. Larry Holder of Jacksonville, AR, her goddaughter Tiffany Harvey Nickens; forty-five great-grandchildren; sixty-three great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. Mother Johnietta Arletha Drone Wagner served as the matriarch of the Drone–Wagner family, guiding generations through her faith, strength, hospitality, and selfless love. Though her earthly journey has ended, the values she instilled and the love she poured into others will continue to live on for generations to come. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday February 7, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (noon) at Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church 4545 Benton Blvd. KCMO 64130. Interment: Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Church. Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapels. Condolences may be shared on our website lawrenceajones.com

Ms. Johnietta Wagner

June 2, 1931 - January 17, 2026