Woodstock - Vera L. Ware, 66, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, February 26, 2026, following a brief illness.

Born on June 13, 1959, in Washington Court House, Ohio, Vera was the daughter of Carlton Brown and Carol Shirkey (Meriman).

Vera found great joy in life's simple pleasures. She especially loved Christmas, listening to Elvis Presley, and spending time in her flower garden alongside her beloved husband, Mark. She cherished time with her dogs and adored her grandchildren. Vera also had a fondness for shopping, which always brought her happiness.

In addition to these joys, Vera had a true passion for dance. She was an instructor at the Arthur Murray Studio, where she taught ballroom, Latin, and many other styles. She also worked as a country line dance instructor and choreographed line dances, sharing her love of music and movement with many others.

Vera is survived by her devoted husband, Mark Ware; her son, Richard Shirkey of Florida; her two stepdaughters, Angela Lord of New Hampshire and Trisha Ware of New Hampshire; her four siblings, Becky Elliot of Florida, Wayne Shirkey of New Hampshire, Jimmy Shirkey of Florida, and Debbie Shirkey of Chicago; and her six beloved grandchildren.