It is with deep love and profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Ruby Bernice Jones Person Ware, who departed this life on May 18, 2026, at the age of 93.

Known lovingly as Bernice, she was the heart of her family—a woman of grace, strength, wisdom, and unwavering faith in God.

Bernice was born in Halifax County, North Carolina, the eldest daughter of Paul and Dorothy Jones. Shortly after her birth, the family relocated to Newport News, Virginia. As a student at Huntington High School, Bernice focused on her studies and dreamed of attending college. Being presented as a debutante during her senior year was one of her proudest accomplishments, reflecting the value of poise, community, and young womanhood. After graduating from Huntington High School in 1951, Bernice attended North Carolina Central University, where she earned a Bachelor of Education degree in 1955.

After college, Bernice moved to New York and began her teaching career. During that time, she married Johnny Oliver Person, and together they welcomed two children, Denise and David. In 1967, she returned to Newport News and taught in the Suffolk and Hampton school systems. Bernice loved teaching and treasured the camaraderie of her colleagues, many of whom became lifelong friends.

In 1972, she married Eugene R. Ware, and they shared many loving years together until his passing in 2003.

Bernice retired from the Hampton school system in 1994. Retirement suited her well, though she rarely slowed down. Bernice loved her church and was a faithful servant. She sang in the church choir, served as moderator of the Church Council, and tutored in the after-school program. She was also an active member of several social clubs, including the Hampton-Newport News Chapter of Chums, Inc., the Buckroe Phoebus Chapter of the Hampton Women Service League, and the Hampton Retired Teachers Association. Bernice enjoyed regular fitness classes at Curves. She was always on the go—vibrant, active, and joyful.

In her downtime, Bernice was a devoted follower of current events and enjoyed daily conversations about politics with her sisters, Juanita and Teola. She also enjoyed watching sports on television, especially her favorite team, the Dallas Cowboys, during the Tom Landry era.

Bernice was deeply devoted to her family and friends. Whether hosting the annual Christmas dinner or celebrating life's milestones together, she was steadfast in her love and support. She had a special gift for making everyone feel seen and valued, and she made it all look effortless. She never met a stranger, and her constant smile, easy laughter, and compassion left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Of all the roles she held, motherhood was the one she cherished most. Her children were her greatest joy, and she was deeply devoted to them. She was a true role model—always present and always generous with her unconditional love.

Bernice was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Eugene R. Ware; her sisters, Juanita Jones and Teola Hawkins; her stepmother, Jessie Jones; her stepdaughter, Sharon Davis; and her stepson, Mervin Ware. She leaves to cherish her memory and continue her legacy her daughter, Denise Person (New York City, NY); her son, David Person, and daughter-in-law, Tabitha, (Hampton, VA); her stepdaughter, Beverly Ware, (Los Angeles, CA); her stepson, Robert Ware, (Los Angeles, CA); her grandchildren, Autumn, Ron, Jessica, Jennifer, David Jr., Christine, and Blake; her great-grandchildren, Maliek, Makhi, Raymond, and Rayven; along with beloved extended family and a host of treasured friends.


The family is grateful for your prayers, love, and support. They also wish to thank the staff at Harmony on the Peninsula, where Bernice, affectionately known there as “Miss Ruby,” resided during her final years, for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Wesley Grove United Church of Christ in Newport News, VA, or to North Carolina Central University, in memory of Ruby B. Ware, in Durham, NC.

 Viewing will begin Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with the family receiving guest from 4:00-5:00 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News, Va. A celebration of life service will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 29, 2026 at Wesley Grove United Church of Christ,2308 Roanoke Avenue, Newport News, Va. 23607. Interment will follow in Hampton Memorial Gardens.