Ann Mayes Ware

Ann Mayes Ware, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, was born on July 15th, 1934, in Statesville, NC, and passed away peacefully on July 5, 2025, at Morningside in Concord, NC, and is now in the loving presence of her Lord and Savior. A gentle soul who touched the lives of many through her kindness and unwavering love, Ann’s legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those she cherished.

Throughout her life, Ann dedicated herself to her family and career, spending 15 fruitful years contributing her talents and affinity for fashion to the Collins Company and Pebbles Department Store, while also serving with unwavering commitment at the United Appeal. It is within the sanctuary of her family where her greatest impact was felt. A nurturing and devoted mother, she cherished her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren deeply, showering them with an affection that knew no bounds. Ann’s greatest accomplishment lay in her profound relationships, which shaped the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her.

In her community, Ann was known as a giving and caring soul. She found joy in sending cards, delighting neighbors with cakes procured from the Party House, and sharing her beloved homemade pimento cheese—simple acts that spoke volumes of her generosity. Her commitment to her loved ones extended far beyond familial duties; she poured her heart into assembling gatherings that celebrated life, particularly during cherished summers spent at the beach or in her family home in Blowing Rock, North Carolina.

A proud graduate of Central High School in Kings Mountain, Ann's formative years were filled with joy at Lake Montonia and the beach, where she created countless vibrant memories. She achieved a distinguished honor as a debutante in the summer of 1952, a testament to her grace and poise.

Her marriage to Moffatt Alexander Ware Jr., her childhood sweetheart, was a union that flourished for an impressive 73 years. Together, they navigated life’s journey, initially becoming one of the first couples at Davidson College with children. They settled in the Montclair Community of Charlotte, North Carolina, where they raised their family and became active members of St. Giles Presbyterian Church. During this time, Ann engaged her heart and soul in community service, working with the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, and she fervently supported as a team mom for her son's Little League baseball team.

In 1971, the family moved to Concord, North Carolina, where they built a home that would be a cherished gathering place for over five decades in the Odell Community. There, they joined Gilwood Presbyterian Church, marking another chapter in Ann's life filled with love and fellowship.

Ann is survived by her beloved children: Carl (Cindy) from Hollywood, SC; Sabrina Ware White from Monroe, NC; Clark (Gina) from Concord, NC; and Todd (Pam) from China Grove, NC. She bore a pride that radiated through her grandchildren: Christina Herndon from Marshville, NC; Haley Ware from Taiwan; Carly Yoho (Garrett) from Concord, NC; Ashley Mahoney (Sam) from Charlotte, NC; Elizabeth Ware from Pooler, GA; and Luke Ware (Allison) from China Grove, NC. Her heart swelled with joy for her two great-granddaughters, Haverly Jane Ware and Isla Grace Ware.

Cherished family ties also included her nephew Butch Metcalfe, great niece Rebecca Metcalfe, great nephew Brentley Metcalfe, further enriching her extensive familial tapestry.

Ann is preceded in death by her husband, Moffatt Alexander Ware Jr.; her father, Hubert Carl Mayes; her mother, Lenora Elizabeth Clark Mayes; her son, Moffatt Alexander Ware III; her brother, Dewey Stokes Mayes; and her sister, Betty Jean Metcalfe.

As we remember Ann Mayes Ware, we celebrate a life beautifully lived, resounding with the love of family and friends. Her spirit shall forever illuminate the hearts of those she leaves behind, reminding us all of the profound power of love, care, and community. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday July 13, 2025 at 3PM at Gilwood Presbyterian Church. 2993 Odell School Rd, Concord, NC 28027.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Gilwood Presbyterian Church, 2993 Odell School Road, Concord, NC 28025, or Atrium Health Hospice & Palliative Care Cabarrus, 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28081.