Herman Hershel Ware, Jr

January 22, 2026

Herman Hershel Ware, Jr., affectionately

known as “Red,” passed away
peacefully at his home in Bes-
semer Jan. 9, 2026, at 90 years
of age.
Born Jan. 1, 1936, Red
lived a life marked by grit,
charm, and a deep love for
his family. A cowboy at heart
and a salesman by trade, he
was a true straight shooter –
someone who told it like it was
and had a way of making you
believe every word he said. His stories were legend-
ary and his presence unforgettable. His quick wit,
easy charm, and unmistakable presence left a mark
everywhere he went.
He worked for Mallinckrodt Veterinary Inc. for
many years. Red carried a quiet faith that grounded
him. It shaped the way he treated others and gave
him a steady sense of peace, especially in his later
years.
He is preceded in death by his beloved wife,
Sandra Ware, whom he cherished deeply. Though
widowed, he carried her memory with him always,
holding close the hope of seeing her again.
He leaves behind his daughter Loretta Ann Ware
Coulter; son Herman “Buddy” Hershel Ware III;
and his daughter Lee Acton Ware Stallings. He was
a proud Pawpaw to Michelle Ware, Christine Ware,
Kate Gundling, Sandra Coulter, Jessica Coulter, Drew
Stallings, Sydney Kinzer, and JD Coulter, each of
whom knew him as a source of wisdom, humor, and
unconditional love.
He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Bow-
en Ware, Zoe Hove, Brooks Clowdus, Colt Crotwell,
Lane Crotwell, Sadie Gundling, Rhett Gundling, and
Sadie Stallings.
Red was loved by many – family, friends, and
countless people whose lives he touched along the
way. He had a rare gift of connecting with others,
leaving lasting impressions through his honesty and
unmistakable personality. While he will be deeply
missed, his family finds comfort knowing he is now
at peace and reunited with Sandra.
He will be remembered with love and gratitude
by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers the family
requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Children
Hospital.
A memorial service was held on Thursday, Jan.
15, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Currie-Jefferson Funeral Home,
2701 John Hawkins Pkwy, Hoover, AL 35244.