About Onzlee Ware
Onzlee Ware was born and raised in Greensboro, North Carolina in a single parent home. His mother taught him to respect all people equally, regardless of their race, wealth, religion, or handicap. He graduated from North Carolina A & T University and received his law degree from North Carolina Central School of Law.
Onzlee first came to Roanoke in 1985 to work as a member of the Blue Ridge Mountains Executive Council of the Boy Scouts of America. He fell in love with the Roanoke Valley and has been here ever since.
Onzlee is the founder and principal of the Law Offices of Onzlee Ware, which he opened in 1988. The Roanoke Times calls him "One of Roanke's most influential attorneys."
One of the most active members of the community, Onzlee has has served on many boards, including Opera Roanoke, Goodwill Industries, and Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He currently is a member of the board of the Taubman Museum of Art, and he donates his time to many community organizations. He also is the founder of the Juneteenth Freedom Day Foundation, Inc.
Governor Mark Warner appointed Onzlee to the Commonwealth Transportation Board in early 2002. In early 2003, Onzlee announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination in the 11th House district. He was successful in defeating a better-funded opponent and won the Democratic primary election in June 2003. With no Republican or Independent opposition, Onzlee became the first African-American delegate west of Charlottesville.
He has focused his efforts in the Virginia General Assembly on creating higher paying jobs, improving the public education system and providing affordable health insurance to the citizens of the 11th house district and all citizens of the Commonwealth. He currently serves on the Education, Appropriations, and Counties, Cities and Towns Committees.
In addition to being an attorney and delegate for the 11th house district, Onzlee is a proud father and grandfather. His daughter, Nikki and granddaughter, Keirra, currently reside in his hometown of Greensboro.
