John [Jack] Carey

John “Jack” Thomas Carey, 71, began his journey of life on February 11, 1953, in Charlottesville, VA. He was born to the late Lucille Carey and baptized at Oak Union Baptist Church at an early age. His earthly journey ended peacefully in his sleep on March 24, 2024. He is preceded in death by his sister, Lucy Washington.

Jack was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, and respected member of the community. His presence brought joy and love to all who knew him and will be missed by many.

Jack graduated from Albemarle High School in 1971 before attending St. Augustine’s University. Jack graduated from the Virginia Banker’s School of Bank Management at the University of Virginia in 1988 and ultimately built a successful career at SunTrust Bank, formerly known as Crestar Bank for over 25 years, where he led a staff of over one hundred employees and served as a Senior Vice President.

He then moved on to serve the City of Richmond as the Deputy Director under the leadership of the former Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder. Jack was well respected and highly regarded by his colleagues, fellow church members, family, and friends.

Jack was a former member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church under the Leadership of Michael V. Kelsey. In 2005, Jack joined Mt. Oni Baptist Church and was ordained and served as a Deacon, bible study leader, and member of the leadership board. It was also during this time that Jack served on the search committee for a new pastor and assisted other devoted leaders of the church in writing the official constitution of the Mt. Oni Baptist Church. After his time there, he joined Fifth Street Baptist Church under the leadership of F. Todd Gray, where he became an active member of the Men’s Fellowship and taught many Sunday School and Vacation Bible School classes.

Additionally, Jack served as the third Vice President of the Mattaponi Association of Virginia, a mentor in the Youth Experiencing Success Mentors Program for Richmond Public Schools, a Chamberlayne Association Youth Sports Coach, the PTA President at Henrico High School, and he received the Black Achiever Award from the YMCA of Richmond. In his professional endeavors, Jack was not only a colleague, but a mentor, a confidant, and even a friend.

Jack was an avid reader, book collector, and music lover. He loved to study the word of God, read literature, and engage in conversations to share any new knowledge he had gained. He was a collector of grizzly bear figurines, noting that the bear is big and strong in stature. He believed the bear offers a sense of warmth and protection, just like he offered. Jack was the embodiment of love. His devotion for his family knew no bounds. He was a man that stood on positive principles and relentlessly advocated for those around him to show and spread love.

Jack’s devotion to his family was limitless. As a loving husband to his wife Patricia, who he referred to as “Pat,” for 37 years, he exemplified the true meaning of partnership and support. Together they enjoyed life, weathered storms, and celebrated milestones and triumphs. His Children, Lorenzo, Jason, Morgan, and Ashlie were his joy, and he embraced his role of being a father with an infinite amount of affection, excitement, and sacrificial commitment.

Jack’s departure leaves a void that can never be filled. Though he may no longer be with us physically, his legacy of love, compassion, and giving spirit will endure and inspire us all for generations to come.

In honoring Jack’s memory, let us all carry on his legacy of embracing one another with love, sharing the word of God, and committing our lives to the betterment of ourselves and others.

Jack is survived by his loving wife Patricia; his children Lorenzo Carey (Sandra), Jason Carey, Morgan Carey, and Ashlie Carey (Aaron); his grandchildren: Jasmine Carey , Daryl Carey, Aaryn Evans, and Ashtyn Evans; two sisters: Cenia Barbour and Avis Brown; one brother: Lewis Carey; a life-long sister-in law, Justine Barbour; eleven brother-in- laws, six sisters-in-law, and a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and admirers whose lives were enriched by his presence.