Annette Ware

Annette was born on June 27, 1958, in Los Angeles, California, to Al Evans and Ruthie Mae Evans. As the next-to-youngest in a loving family of seven, she accepted Christ into her heart at a young age, which laid the groundwork for a life filled with faith and love.

Annette had a remarkable talent for expressing herself through various art forms, finding incredible joy and fulfillment in painting and drawing. This passion allowed her to connect deeply with her creativity and share it with others. Throughout her childhood and adolescence, she participated in a prestigious art program and won several awards.

In 1973, while attending Gage Junior High School in Huntington Park, California, Annette met Naum Leroy Ware Sr. Their connection blossomed during high school, culminating in sweet moments at the prom and Senior Day. Annette shone as a majorette, while Naum, affectionately known as Leroy, showcased his athletic talents in football and track. Despite the beautiful romance they shared in high school, they ended their relationship at the culmination of their senior year.

When both Leroy and Annette turned 18, they unexpectedly found themselves working at the same restaurant in Long Beach, the Queen's Way Hilton. Leroy worked as a busboy, and Annette as a hostess. Having not seen each other since high school, their reunion rekindled a flood of cherished memories. After a week filled with excitement, Leroy mustered the courage to ask Annette out. Six months later, in a beautiful moment at Tony's on the Pier in Redondo Beach, Leroy proposed, marking the beginning of their exquisite journey together.

The couple exchanged vows on January 28, 1978, and had two wonderful children, Naum Jr. and Nicole. Annette selflessly chose to dedicate her time to nurturing their family and put her college aspirations on hold. After her children were grown, she embarked on a rewarding career as a ladies' fitness instructor, inspiring others for over 31 years through Jazzercise and her own fitness classes. Annette shared a deeply loving marriage with her husband that spanned almost 48 years, a testament to their unwavering commitment and partnership.

Tragically, Annette's life came to an unexpected end when a blood clot caused a major stroke. The profound loss felt by her loved ones serves as a reminder of the impact she had on their lives. Annette fought valiantly throughout her journey, embodying the unwavering faith beautifully expressed in 2 Timothy 4:7.

In her passing, we truly recognize that heaven has gained an incredible soul.