Harriet A. Waring

Fort Worth — Harriet Waring, 89, passed away peacefully on her birthday, Wednesday, December 17, 2025, of natural causes, surrounded by her loving family at home.

Memorial Service: 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 16, 2026, at The Chapel at University Christian Church.

She was born in 1936 to Fred and Ann Waring in Houston, Texas. After growing up in West Texas, Harriet completed nursing school at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Fort Worth and went on to become a certified registered nurse anesthetist, dedicating nearly 40 years of service to Harris Hospital. Throughout her career, her skill, calm presence, and compassion left a lasting impact on countless patients, colleagues, and students.

Harriet dedicated her life to teaching and to the service of others. She was a mentor to many, particularly young women entering the medical profession, and a steadfast supporter of women pursuing education, independence, and leadership. Her quiet encouragement and example shaped generations.

A lifelong learner and avid traveler, Harriet loved exploring the world, embracing new cultures, and sharing stories from her adventures. She had a deep love for animals and was a gentle advocate for their care and protection.

Faith was central to Harriet’s life. She lived her beliefs through kindness, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to caring for others. Her life was a reflection of grace, humility, and service.

She was preceded in death by her lifelong companion, Mary Jo Shepherd; her parents, Fred and Ann Waring; and her sister.

She is survived by her nieces, Mida A. Witt, Sue Ott, Faye Gwin, and Merrill King; her nephews, James Gwin, Clay Shepherd, Worth Shepherd, and Dario Oliphant; her god-daughter, Lisa Swoboda; her great-niece and devoted caregiver, Courtney Hendrix; her special friend, Maggie Cutrer; along with other extended family members, dear friends, former students, colleagues, and patients whose lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County or the Nurse Anesthesia program at Texas Christian University.