Celia Rea Wagner Coughlin

Celia Rea Coughlin(Wagner), 87, passed away Friday, October 9th, 2026 at Hospice House of Williamsburg. Born in Isle of Wight County to Alton and Hazel Wagner(Purdie), she graduated Chuckatuck High School in 1956 and the Louise Obici School of Nursing in 1959. She then married Richard "Dick" E. Coughlin, Jr. USAF also in 1959. They were married for over 54 years, traveling the world until his passing in 2014. She enjoyed a long career in nursing, working in numerous hospitals and offices over the years, helping bring many new babies into this world. Gifted with a lovely singing voice, she sang at every opportunity. She performed in many productions with The Singing Ambassadors and Sweet Adeline choruses. Since her sons were Boy Scouts she got involved too and spent a good 35 years volunteering with the organization. She was a lifelong member of Oakland Christian Church in Chuckatuck. She was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution as well as the United Daughters of the Confederacy and The National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century. Celia Rea is survived by her 3 sons Steven, Michael and Mark. Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, Oct. 22nd from 6 to 7 p.m. at Little's Funeral Home in Smithfield. Burial will be at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veteran's Cemetery at a future date. The family suggests memorial contributions to American Legion Post 49, PO Box 601, Smithfield, VA 23431 or to the VFW 8545, PO Box 461, Smithfield, VA 23431. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com