Mildred Imogene Ware

Our beloved Mildred “Millie” Ware (a.k.a. Gram, Grambo, Fudge Lady, and The Cross in my Pocket Lady) went to Heaven on October 24, 2025. Born Mildred Imogene Thomas on Christmas Eve, 1933, in Richwood, West Virginia, she was the best Christmas gift her mother ever received. Millie was one of eight children and loved her siblings dearly.

After graduating from high school in 1951, her family moved to Akron, Ohio. It was there, on a blind date, she met the love of her life, Carl Ware. They married in 1955 and built a beautiful life together. Millie and Carl settled in Tallmadge, Ohio, where they lived for more than 30 years before moving to Crestwood, Kentucky, in 1990, to be near their grandchildren — whom they absolutely adored. “Gram and Pap” spoiled their grandkids rotten and filled their lives with countless wonderful memories.

A devoted member of Crestwood Baptist Church, Millie participated in Young at Heart and other church activities. Her famous homemade fudge was a staple on mission trips, and her “Cross in My Pocket” ministry touched people all over the world. She made thousands of those tiny vinyl crosses and gave them freely, sharing her faith and kindness with everyone she met.

Millie never met a stranger. She would have gladly given the shirt off her back or the shoes off her feet to anyone in need. Her kindness was effortless — whether she was sharing a treat from her kitchen, a word of encouragement, or a prayer, she made everyone feel seen and loved.

In her spare time, she loved bowling, fishing, and going on senior trips with her church. She also volunteered at her grandchildren’s schools, once being honored as Volunteer of the Year at Centerfield Elementary.

Millie was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Joseph Ware (2002); her son, Douglas Leonard Ware (2023); her parents, seven siblings; and several nieces and nephews.

She leaves behind a lifetime of love and memories for those who survive her: her daughter, Stephanie Ballard (Dale); daughter-in-law, Teresa Ware; grandchildren Chad Ballard (Tim), Brooke Jung (Christopher), Eric Ballard (Rachel), Ali Darland (Brandon), and Kevin Ware (Kelsey); and great-granddaughters Finley Ann Ware and Maeve Parker Darland. She is also survived by many beloved brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, as well as dear friends —especially her best friend of over 70 years, Helen Jaynes of Akron, Ohio.

Her passing leaves a hole in our hearts, but we take comfort in knowing she is whole again and that we will one day be reunited. One of her recent sayings was, “If I don’t wake up, I’ll see you in Heaven.”

The family would like to thank the wonderful professionals at Hosparus, especially Shelly, Amanda, and Tori, for their compassion and care. Special thanks also to her “Abel Transport Twins,” CJ and Evan, and her caregivers, Paula Earls and Angie Parker — your kindness will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Crestwood Baptist Church in Crestwood, Kentucky, followed by funeral services at 2 p.m. A private burial will follow at Floydsburg Cemetery in Crestwood on Monday, November 3, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Millie’s memory may be made to: Crestwood Baptist Church, Belington Presbyterian Church, or Hosparus Health of Louisville.