Joe Durham Ware

Mr. Joe Durham Ware, 78, of Swainsboro, Georgia passed away Friday, June 24, 2022, at his home.  Mr. Ware was born in Emanuel County.  After graduation from Swainsboro High School, he joined the United States Army National Guard. He often shared many fond stories of his time serving with his brothers in the Guard. 

Mr. Ware was most notably known for his time at Ware’s BBQ.  Joe’s life revolved around his family and the BBQ business that was started by his Uncle Dudley Ware and his parents.  Joe was co-owner of Ware’s BBQ on North Main Street, Ware’s Old Mill BBQ, and Ware’s of Soperton.  He retired in March of 2021.  Joe had many hobbies. He loved to hunt, fish, and most of all spend time with his family.  After retirement you could find him at the ballfield, dance recitals or behind the grill cooking for his family.  Mr. Ware is better known by those who love him the most as “Pop.”  

Mr. Ware was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Swainsboro.  He was a member of the Swainsboro Kiwanis Club.  Joe and his wife, Cindy, enjoyed club meetings on Tuesday nights and fellowship with friends.

Joe Durham Ware was preceded in death by his father, Jody Crawford “Buck” Ware; mother, Virginia Opal Ware; daughter, Jenna Opal Ware; and brother, Johnny Morris Ware.

Survivors include: his wife of 44 years, Cynthia “Cindy” Owens Ware; mother-in-law, Mildred Owens of North Augusta, South Carolina; two sons, Jansen Wade Ware and Sky Ware of Swainsboro; Jarett Owens Ware of Statesboro; three daughters, Jacey Ware Story and Matthew Story of Matthews; Kimberly Allison Stevens of Swainsboro; Kellie Jo Meeks and Kenneth Meeks of Swainsboro, grandchildren; Bowen Ware, Hudson Ware, Raelyn Ware, Jenna Ware, Madison Story, Ivy Story, Grayson Mendieta, Kenlie Meeks, Shanna Stevens, Nikki Stevens, Seagi Stevens, Sully Stevens; sister-in-law, Gail Ware; many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, June 27, 2022, at Swainsboro First United Methodist Church with Reverend David Unkles officiating.

Interment will follow in Swainsboro City Cemetery. 

The family will receive friends from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Sunday, June 26, 2022, at Chapman Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Eddie Lewis, Randy Mosley, Graham Lawson, Blaine Burrell, Donnie Garrett, and James Akridge.

Honorary Pallbearers will be members of the Kiwanis Club, Larry Underwood, Wayne Kea and Raymond Riner. 

Condolences may be expressed at www.chapmanfhofswainsboro.com

Chapman Funeral Home of Swainsboro is in charge of the arrangements for Mr. Joe Durham Ware, 78, of Swainsboro.

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