Caring for his family, mentoring his teachers,, and always ready to help.

I’m pleased that I played some part in Herb’s marvelous life. I was his doctoral advisor at the University of Maryland - he was such a great pleasure to work with and to interact with over the ensuing years.  I marveled at his multi-faceted career. Libby, my fondest condolences to you and the family. 

Whenever I think of Dr. Ware, I’m filled with joyful memories and can still hear his voice generously sharing his wisdom. He had a gift for seeing the potential in others and nurturing it until they could see it in themselves. Over many years, Dr. Ware recognized and supported my growth as a teacher, leader, and researcher. I cherished every moment of being part of the educational community he built at Barrett Elementary, and I remain deeply grateful. Though he will be greatly missed, we will always feel his deep love, continue to benefit from the talents he cultivated in every educator, student, and family, and be guided by his extraordinary, practical wisdom.

Dear Libby,

Our love and prayers are with you and your family as we remember Herb. He was a great and wonderful friend to all of us. The Lord bless you and keep you.

Paula and Glenn Lohrmann and family

Herb Ware was a true “gem” as he fondly referred to many of us whom he hired and mentored. He hired me in 1982 and provided me with a great foundation that led to a long and fulfilling career with Arlington Public Schools. I think back on my years at Barrett with tremendous fondness. Herb supported our initiatives and fostered strong relationships among staff members. Many of us stayed in touch with Herb and Libby over the years.  Herb made connections with us no matter the subject: from studying to traveling to hiking to family. He and my husband John bonded over their shared love of woodworking. When Herb’s eyesight prevented him from continuing to pursue woodworking, he turned his creative talents to acting and painting. John and I had the honor of attending one of Herb’s plays at Ashby Ponds. I will always treasure my time spent with Herb and Libby. 

Dr Ware was one of my first principals as a young teacher. We worked together at Barrett for 13 years . He was incredibly supportive when I needed it initially with  my SPED students and then as I moved into Gen Ed. He saw my potential as a talented teacher long before I did. He gave me the ability to career switch twice within Barrett when it was the right choice for my family and I. He was an incredible human being and principal and will be missed. We kept in touch until just a few years ago when I retired and moved to Florida. 

I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Ware a remarkable principal and mentor. He gave me my first opportunity as a teacher—an act of trust and generosity that shaped the course of my life. Warm, wise, and endlessly welcoming, Herb had a gift for making others feel seen, supported, and inspired. I will always be grateful for his guidance and kindness. He saw my potential as a teacher even though I doubted myself. He created a safe community of educators who trusted his leadership and bonded under his guidance. He had a profound influence on my life. Libby, hugs to you and the family, when I think of him I always have a smile on my face remembering our chats and great times together.

My condolences to Libby, though she probably won’t remember me.    I was a  member of the Hospitality group at Barrett, and I bought the staff Christmas gift for him for more than five years.  I think they were all related to hiking.  🥾🥾  My favorite gift was the hiking stick, carved by a man from Tennessee, that I had found at a local craft fair.   It had the bearded face of a “mountain man” carved at the top.  Herb seemed to like it as much as I did.    

- from Nancy P, retired K teacher

Dr. Ware was a very special person who touched the hearts of many teachers, myself included. Herb gave me my first teaching job back in 1990 in Arlington County. He mentored and gave me confidence in my abilities to teach even the most challenging students. I am still teaching today. Thank you, Dr.Ware. ♥️