Riquita Denise Wagner

Riquita Denise Wagner, known by many as Kita, passed away at her home in the early morning of May 11, 2023. 

Kita was born on February 21, 1980, to her mother, Sylvia, and father, RL Carpenter, in North Little Rock, AR and raised by her mother and stepfather, Clayton Davis, as they moved around the world; experiencing a zest for life and cultural curiosity alongside her brother, Derek, and sister, Mikayla. She graduated in Japan from Misawa Air Base’s Edgren High School in 1998 before joining the Air Force a few years later. On May 22, 2002, she married the love of her life, Daniel Wagner. Her education culminated in 2021, as she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. 

As the oldest of the three, Kita was the first to try new things, seek out adventures, and brave dangerous situations. She was never afraid to test the limits set before her. She was a rebel. But through those actions, she also became a compassionate caregiver. Not only did she help guide her younger siblings, but she also helped others throughout her life, and was a great lover of animals.  

Kita was always there for others. Whether it was crafting soaps, or canning food, or showing love to friends and family going through difficult situations, you could count on her for support. She was a deep listener when you needed to talk through issues, an excellent brainstormer for when you couldn’t solve a problem, and always had the best cat videos ready when you just needed a break from it all.  

Kita brought humor to every aspect of her life. She was sassy, sarcastic, and always quick to laugh; readily quipped with a joke even when times were dark. From time to time, her own demons would rear their heads, but she was brave enough to reach out to her friends and family to help her weather the storm. Kita could bring a smile to any room and used that as a sword and shield in the face of adversity.  

Her most impressive trait was her strength. Kita was an Air Force veteran and faced all the difficulties that being active-duty entails. After her service, she continued supporting her country as a military spouse while Daniel still wore the uniform. Through every deployment, PCS, and challenge, she earned the prestigious Molly Pitcher Award bestowed to those that voluntarily contributed significant improvements to her military community. 

Kita was a treasure, and her presence will be sorely missed. There is not a person who knew her who has not felt this loss.  

She is survived by her loving husband Daniel, her parents and siblings, and a host of loving friends and family. Her final resting place will be at the Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery. 

As an avid Hockey fan, in lieu of a service, donations can be made in her name to the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation..  

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