Richard A. Ware of Plymouth, Massachusetts, formerly of Pembroke, passed away unexpectedly at his home on January 4, 2026. He was 81 years old.
Richard was born on November 22, 1944, in Brockton, Massachusetts. He was the son of the late Mildred (Beals) Johnson and Arnold Ware.
Richard was a loving father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather who deeply cherished his family. He is survived by his two daughters, Tracey Smith of Sagamore Beach, Massachusetts, and Tara Grohe and her husband Kevin Grohe of Powell, Ohio. He was predeceased by his beloved son, Rick Ware.
He is also survived by his siblings, Wayne Russo of Raynham, Massachusetts, and Patricia Condon of Florida. He was predeceased by his sister, Shirley Ferris.
Richard leaves behind seven grandchildren: Erik Smith and his wife Samantha Smith, Jamie Lanoie and her husband Colin Lanoie, Jake Smith, Nicholas Farren, Kayla Grohe, Ryan Grohe, and Jack Grohe. He was the proud great-grandfather of four great-grandchildren: Casey, Jax, Juniper, and Lyla.
Richard graduated from Whitman-Hanson High School and went on to work as a carpet and flooring installer for over 40 years, a trade he took great pride in. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and was an active member of the American Legion.
Known for his larger-than-life personality, Richard was a true character who loved telling a good story and was always quick with a laugh. He had a great sense of humor and an unmistakable presence that will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was also a devoted fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots, rarely missing an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams. Rick had a passion for Men’s League Softball and competed for many years.
A private celebration of Richard’s life will be held at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more