Cathy Ann Learn, 75 of Zanesville

Cathy Ann (Wagner) Learn, 75, of Zanesville, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on October 28, 2026.

Born March 2, 1951, in Martins Ferry, Ohio, Cathy was the eldest daughter of the late G. David and Helen Louise (Butcher) Wagner. She graduated from Philo High School and went on to pursue a lifetime devoted to learning, education, and helping others.

Cathy was a Registered Nurse whose educational journey began with practical nursing training at the Muskingum Area Joint Vocational School District in 1981, the institution now known as Mid-East Career and Technology Centers. She later earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Ohio University, a Master of Arts from The Ohio State University, and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix. Her dedication to education and professional development remained a guiding principle throughout her life.

Cathy devoted 30 years of her professional career to Mid-East Career and Technology Centers, where she served as Health Occupations Coordinator, overseeing adult and high school nursing programs. It was especially meaningful that she would later serve the same institution where her own nursing education began. She believed education could transform lives and was especially passionate about helping people gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to build successful careers, provide better opportunities for themselves and their families, and care for others.

She guided her students with encouragement, a reassuring smile, and, when necessary, a little tough love. She took a genuine interest in their lives, remembering their names and individual stories. Her influence reached far beyond the classroom, through the many nurses she helped prepare and the countless patients they would go on to serve.

Her professional accomplishments also included serving as an Education Regulatory Surveyor for the Ohio Board of Nursing in Columbus and establishing Learn & Hostetler, LLC, Nursing Education Specialists, in partnership with Jody Hostetler. Most recently, Cathy had begun working with Zane State College to assist in developing a new nursing program, continuing her lifelong commitment to education.

Cathy was a strong, independent, and determined woman who believed in hard work, perseverance, and making the most of life’s opportunities. Never one to sit idle, she always had another project, interest, or idea in mind. She led by example, demonstrating the importance of lifelong learning, self-reliance, and helping others succeed.

Beyond her professional career, Cathy was an entrepreneur with a passion for antiques, history, and her community. During the 1980s and 1990s, she owned Learn’s Restaurant in downtown Zanesville. She also operated Rocking Horse Gifts, an eclectic antique shop reflecting her appreciation for the history and character of treasured objects.

Cathy was also a past president of the Zanesville Downtown Association and a recipient of the YWCA Women of Achievement Award, reflecting her dedication to her community and the opportunities she helped create for others.

Cathy and her beloved husband, Duane Learn, were married on December 19, 1982. Together, they enjoyed purchasing and restoring older properties throughout Zanesville, preserving their character and contributing to the community they called home.

Cathy enjoyed attending auctions, collecting antiques, gardening, reading, and caring for her cherished cat companions.

She was a life member of the Chandlersville United Methodist Church, where she and Duane were also married. Her Christian faith was an important part of her life, and she often shared wisdom from the Bible with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Duane Learn; her parents, G. David and Helen Louise Wagner; her brother, William “Bill” Wagner; her dear grandmother, Velma Cartell; and her sister-in-law, Marilyn Wagner.

Cathy is survived by her son, Jason Learn and his wife, Heidi; her many grandchildren, including Jared Englehart and Taryn (Dustin) Hague, and Rowan and Ruby, of whom she was especially fond; her brother, Jerry Wagner and his wife, Peggy, of Dover, Ohio; and Kelly Rutland and her husband, Jubel, of Mississippi.

She is also survived by her nieces Stephanie Winsor, Sheri, Shanna, and Catherine; her nephews Shawn and David; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and other extended family members. Stephanie and Bill Winsor held a particularly special place in Cathy’s life.

Among her dear friends were Karla Fry and Kelly Mix.

Cathy will be remembered for her strength, independence, determination, love of family, and unwavering belief in the importance of education and helping others. Whether guiding future nurses, restoring a property, pursuing a new endeavor, or caring for those around her, Cathy approached life with purpose.

Her legacy lives on through her family, the students she inspired, the lives she touched, and the example she set for those who knew and loved her.

Cremation arrangements are being handled by DeLong-Baker & Lanning Funeral Home. No visitation is planned.

To sign the online guestbook and leave condolences, please visit www.delongbakerlanning.com