Larry Wagner Obituary

Dr. Larry Richard Wagner, resident of Irmo, SC for 28 years, died peacefully on October 16, 2025 at the age of 69. Born on September 8, 1956 in Butler, PA to Clarence Wagner and Shirley Morrow Wagner, Larry moved to the Columbia area in 1996 when he felt called to serve as a professor of Psychology at Columbia International University (CIU). He was instrumental in establishing their Graduate School of Counseling, and upon his retirement in 2024, was honored by the title of Professor Emeritus. Larry's greatest passions in life were loving his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and guiding people toward emotional and spiritual health. Between his duties as a professor, counseling people in private practice, and ministering at Gateway Baptist Church, he had a profound impact on the lives of others. He had the ability to make them feel heard, understood, and supported no matter their background or life circumstances. His genuine love for people and commitment to enhancing their relationships, both with God and with those around them, was felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Larry's book, Help Me Help Others, has provided counselors, pastors, and care-givers a template for engaging in discussions about deep issues of the heart. In his spare time, Larry enjoyed spending quality time with his family; cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Atlanta Braves, and South Carolina Gamecocks; reading the scriptures and books on spirituality; and creating beautiful outdoor spaces through landscaping. He is survived by his spouse, Susan Francis Wagner; son, Ben Wagner (Lauren); daughter, Dana Wagner; brothers,David Wagner (Alice) and John Wagner; sister, Daphne Gaines (Steve); many nieces and nephews; and grandson, Shep. He is predeceased by his father and mother. A visitation will be held from 12:45 p.m. until 1:45 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2025, with a memorial service to immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. at Gateway Baptist Church, 1651 Dutch Fork Road, Irmo, South Carolina. Throughout the years, Larry and Julian "Hule" Goddard have partnered together to provide intensive renewal and soul care experiences for individuals seeking healing. In lieu of sending flowers, you are invited to donate to this continuing ministry by going to www.call2disciple.com/julian-hule-goddard-soulcare, selecting Julian Hule Goddard as the recipient. Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Larry with the family by clicking on the button labeled "Share A Memory."