Mary M. Ware, age 64, of Freeport, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on April 27, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. She was born on January 1, 1961 to Homer and Irma (McElroy) Ware in Freeport, IL.

Mary was a proud graduate of Freeport High School, Class of 1979, and went on to earn her bachelor's degree in social work from Rockford University. Early on in her life she worked at the County Clerk's Office in Freeport. Mary was one of the first students with a physical disability to be mainstreamed into regular education classes in her school district. Throughout her life, she witnessed and experienced the growing recognition of disability rights and the expansion of accessibility laws — changes that deeply impacted her life and the lives of others. Her strength and determination left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Despite her challenges, she led an incredibly independent and full life, touching many with her kindness and creativity. Mary had a special talent and passion for making handmade greeting cards, which she loved sharing and selling at local craft shows. She was a devoted volunteer with VOICES, contributing her time at the Book Nook in Freeport. She also enjoyed traveling with her friends and family, building sand castles on the beach, caring for the cats she adopted from the local animal shelter and collecting teddy bears, which brought her comfort and joy.

Mary is survived by her siblings: brothers Bill (Jody) Ware of Apple Canyon, IL; Mike (Geraldine) Ware of Shullsburg, WI; and Greg Ware (Melinda Furth) of Freeport, IL; and sisters Jenice (Mark) Jacobs of Cedarville, IL, and Julie (Jon) Pick of Rockford, IL. She is also remembered fondly by her 12 nieces and nephews, along with many dear friends and extended family members.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and sister Carolyn.

The family suggests donations may be made to VOICES of Stephenson County or the Friends Forever Humane Society, in honor of Mary's love for helping others and her deep compassion for animals.

Mary will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her courage, creativity, compassion, and the joy she brought into the lives of those around her.

We would like to extend a special thanks to Northern Illinois Hospice for allowing her to spend her last moments at home with family and friends.

According to Mary's wishes cremation rites have been accorded.  Her final resting place will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport.  Condolences can be shared with the family at www.walkermortuary.com