Erma Lee Ware's Obituary
Erma Lee Ware, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, in Garland, Texas, surrounded by love in the comfort of her home.
Born on July 30, 1937, in Longwood, Louisiana, to Mattie Mae Love Wright and Johnnie Wright, Erma was a cherished longtime resident of Shreveport, Louisiana. For 69 years, she walked hand in hand with her beloved husband, Clarence L. Ware, whom she wed on December 4, 1954, and who preceded her in death.
Erma was known for her vibrant personality and a mischievous sense of humor that could light up any room. She embraced life fully and lived it on her own terms. Erma was always ready for an adventure. All someone had to say was, “Let’s…” and she was already grabbing her things. The destination didn’t matter. What mattered was living. Whether traveling from New Orleans to Oklahoma with her dear friend Leita Brooks Dennis or heading out just for a change of scenery, Erma found joy in the journey itself.
She loved visiting “the boat,” where she would play the slot machines and see where her luck might take her. She was competitive and playful, especially when it came to games. If you ever played a game with her, you knew one thing quickly: Erma came to win. Even if the opponent was her granddaughter, and the game was air hockey, love didn’t mean she was going to let you win easily.
Erma also loved to shop and took pride in looking her best. With her daughter-in-law Vanessa by her side, the two were often “thick as thieves,” enjoying shopping trips filled with laughter and style. She knew she looked good, and she didn’t mind if you knew it too.
Her generosity was unmatched. Erma welcomed neighborhood children into her home as if they were her own, always making sure no one left hungry. She gave freely. Erma offered rides, clothes, food, and even money, sometimes borrowing it just so she could give it. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and unconditional love.
A woman of faith, Erma was a devoted member of Republican Baptist Church in Mooringsport, Louisiana. She served faithfully as President of the Pastor Aide, participated in fundraisers, and occasionally lifted her voice in song, including “Amazing Grace.”
Erma had a way with words that those who knew her will never forget. She could uplift you with, “You look nice,” or humble you just as quickly with, “You look like under a bobo tail.” She offered wisdom like, “If you can, you can. If you can’t, you can’t,” and warnings like, “You crazy fool.” She showed love in her own unique way: sometimes playful, sometimes blunt, but always genuine.
Affectionately known as “Granny,” “Big Erm,” and “Boom Boom Granny,” she held a special place in her grandchildren's hearts. She would often remind them, “You only have ONE granny,” and there was truly no one else like her.
Granny made magic out of ordinary moments. When parents said no to soda, somehow Granny made a Coke appear. At her house, there was always something to eat, and her cooking was unforgettable. The grandkids loved her roast, neck bones, purple hull peas, cornbread (including her famous hot water cornbread), yams, and a metal pitcher filled with Kool-Aid or tea.
She loved music and dancing, often entertaining her grandchildren with her signature moves, telling her legs, “Hit me back,” as she laughed and danced. Summers at her home on Victor Street were filled with cousins, family, and a house overflowing with love, laughter, and life.
Her playful spirit carried through everything she did. When children asked where she was going, she would smile and say, “I’m going to see a man about a rooster,” leaving them curious while the adults shared a knowing laugh.
Erma’s love extended far beyond her immediate family. She formed deep, lasting bonds with friends, caregivers, and all those who crossed her path. Her lifelong friendships with Jean Alice Brooks and Doris Jones were especially meaningful. Even in her later years, she continued to nurture new relationships, becoming a surrogate mother and grandmother to many, including Aisha and Candice, who loved her dearly. Her caregivers, Jacob, Skyla, and Gucci, didn’t just care for her; they loved her. Because you couldn’t know Erma and not love her.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Clarence L. Ware; her parents, Mattie Mae Love Wright and Johnnie Wright; her brothers Londen Primus, Leon Wright, John Louis Wright, and Ernest Wade Wright; her sisters Lessie Moss, Dora McFarland, and Mattie L. Wright; her daughter-in-law Phyllis Bedford; her grandchildren Darryl “Ray” Ware I, Derek Ware, and Gregory Owens Jr.; and her great-grandchildren Ryleigh Williams and Darryl “Ray Ray” Ware II.
Erma leaves to cherish her memory her children: Donald Ray (Vanessa) Ware; Wyrick C. Ware; Sharon “Bug” (Willie “Ray”) Williams; LaDonna (Gregory Sr.) Owens; Phyllis (Lakitus) Wimberly; and Countressa “Connie” (Dairin) Jones; along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends.
Erma Lee Ware lived a life full of love, laughter, generosity, and unforgettable moments. Her legacy will continue to live on through the stories we tell, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered.
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