Reverend Joseph George Carey, 84, of New Port Richey, Florida, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Joe was born on July 15, 1941, in Taylor, Pennsylvania and shortly after his birth, his family moved to New Jersey, where he was raised. He was the son of James William Carey and Pearl Catherine Frey. He grew up alongside his brother, Raymond and his sisters, Christine and Julie.

Joe was a strong student, athlete, and graduated from Arthur L. Johnson High School, Clark, New Jersey. He went on to earn a full academic scholarship to Lafayette College as an engineering student and was very active in sports. When he realized that path was not right for him, he continued searching for direction, working for Shell Oil Co., serving in the United States Army, and ultimately answering a calling to ministry.

He pursued his education at Bloomfield College, Rollins College, and later at Drew Theological Seminary and Princeton Theological Seminary, where he earned his Master of Divinity degree in 1979.

Joe served as a Presbyterian minister for many years, leading congregations in New Jersey and Florida and preaching abroad in Scotland during a two-month pulpit exchange. He had a special gift for connecting with people. His family was very active in church, so it was only natural for Joe to follow suit. He taught Sunday school, served as a children’s pastor and was known for bringing his messages to life through storytelling and puppets. He also volunteered as a chaplain in the pediatric unit of a local hospital, offering comfort to children and their families.

In addition to his ministry, Joe served his community in meaningful ways. He was employed as a firefighter by the Fire Department of Winter Park, Florida and the Pine Castle Fire Department. He volunteered for many years with the Winfield Park Fire Department and Ambulance Squad in the town where he grew up. Many times he was the first one there after the bull horn went off, jumping the hedges and running through the field.

In 1962, Joe met the love of his life, Mary Ann Szczepanowski. They became engaged on December 24, 1966 and were married on March 29, 1969. Together, they shared more than 60 years of love, faith, and partnership.

They were blessed with a life that allowed them to experience more than they ever imagined, but what meant the most was the people they met along the way and adopting their children. Their time in Poland was especially meaningful, where Mary Ann was able to reconnect with her family. They were welcomed into their homes with open arms, and Joe was loved just as deeply. Those visits became some of their most cherished memories. They returned several times over the years, including to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary.

Together, they also traveled throughout Europe and beyond, visiting places like Scotland, England, Wales, Germany, France, Hawaii, and Mexico, and enjoying time together on several cruises.

Joe was a devoted husband, father, and proud Pop Pop. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ann Carey; his son, Joseph James Carey and his wife Angela; his daughter, Rachel Ann Carey and his four granddaughters, Emma, Millie, Gwen, and Evy. He is also survived by his sister, Julie Steffen and her husband George, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James William Carey and Pearl Catherine Frey; his brother, J. Raymond Carey and his wife, Margot; and his sister, Christine J. Zigray and her husband, Louis; and nephews Louis, Jr., and Curtis Zigray.

Joe will be remembered for his deep faith, his strong voice, and the way he showed up for the less fortunate.

 “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” — Psalm 118:24 One of Joe’s cherished scriptures which he sang every day. 

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