It's with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Carrie Ware of Bedford, beloved grandmother (Granny), mother and friend who passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at the age of 85.

Carrie was born May 12, 1939 in Bedford, to the late Charlie Robert Hensley and Minerva Jane Holdren Hensley. She was also preceded in death by her son-in-law, Whorten Bane Bowyer and her brother, Lewis Carson Hensley. She married the love of her life, Pete Ware, Jr., in 1956 and together they raised five children. Pete preceded her in death in 2020, but Carrie's strength and love of her family remained a guiding light until the end of her life.

Carrie was a remarkable woman who touched the hearts of everyone around her. Her home was always open to family and friends, with the laughter of children and great grandchildren, the smell of homecooked meals and where the presence of love filled the hearts of everyone around.

In addition to the devotion to her family, Carrie was deeply involved in her community. She was an active member of Otterville Church and spent many years touching the hearts of everyone who came through the doors. She loved her Friday morning breakfasts at Hardees with her close group of beloved friends and her kindness and compassion left a lasting impact on all who met her.

Carrie is survived by her children, Janet Bowyer of Goode, Darlene Ware of Bedford; Fred Ware (Rhonda) of Crewe, Ed Ware (Cindy) of Bedford & Steve Ware (Tamitha) of Bedford; grandchildren, Amanda Lynch (Cline), Pete Bowyer, Amber Overstreet (Joseph), Trey Boyles (Samantha), Dustin Boyles (Brittany), Andy Ware, Macie Ware, Regan Ware and Cheyenne Dooley (Camden); great grandchildren, Madilynn, Kaleb and Bryson Boyles, Peyton and Cole Lynch, Leigha and Isaiah Boyles, Cymber, Coraline and Casey Dooley; her brothers, Clyde Hensley, Wayne Hensley (Judy) and sister, Christine Bryant.

The family requests that those wishing to make memorials in her honor, please consider Otterville Church, 6524 Big Island Highway, Bedford, VA 24523.

Carrie will be remembered for her boundless love, unwavering faith and the joy she brought to everyone around her. She will be dearly missed, but her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 10 AM on Friday, December 27, 2024 at Updike Funeral Chapel, Bedford with Pastor Mark Wilkerson officiating. Interment will follow in Virginia Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 5 until 7 PM on Thursday, December 26, 2024 at Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.