EAST LIVERPOOL, OHIO – Joseph R. "Joe" Hager, 85, of East Liverpool, passed away on Tuesday, August 12, 2026, at East Liverpool City Hospital.

Joe was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on June 27, 1941, a son of the late Edwin and Edna (Wright) Hager. He was a graduate of East Liverpool High School Class of 1960. Joe was an Army veteran proudly serving in the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He worked as an electrician for IBEW Local Union #246 in Steubenville, OH. Joe was an avid fan of East Liverpool High School sports. Joe was very involved in the Potter Mite Wrestling Program where he coached and volunteered his time. He was a member of Boyce Methodist Church. Joe enjoyed going golfing and fishing. Most importantly, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle that enjoyed spending time with his family.

Preceding Joe in death were his 1st wife Carole (Knowles) Hager; brother Clark Hager; eight sisters Hazel Adkins, Harriet Slagle, Katherine James, Betty Lou Hager, Dorothy LeMasters, Ella Mae Carter, Barbara Hull and Edna Hebron and a nephew who was raised as his brother Bill Stoddard.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 12 years, whom he married September 11, 2013, Georgia (Brown) Hager; son Steven Knowles Hager; stepson Larry Madison; two granddaughters Rorie Hager and Carrie Ann Hager; three brothers Ed Hager and his wife Sue, Jim Hager and Dave Hager and his wife Carolyn and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may visit Monday at the Dawson Funeral Home where the family will be present from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Joel Adkins will conduct a funeral service 1 p.m. Monday at the funeral home where Tri State Veterans Burial Group will conduct military honors. Private burial at Riverview Cemetery.

Immediately following the service, the family will gather at Dawson Family Center for a time of fellowship.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be directed in Joe's memory to Tuition Mission Foundation, PO Box 458, East Liverpool, OH 43920.