JoAnna Carey

My dearest JoAnna, you were the love of my life and continue to be my spiritual soulmate for all eternity.- Martin "Marty" J. Carey (Married: August 11, 1962)

JoAnna S. Carey, beloved wife of 64 years, mother, and lifelong educator, peacefully left this world on Sunday, August 18, 2024. She was surrounded by her family, friends, neighbors, and her canine rescue, "Tinkerbell." JoAnna had an unbridled and generous nature throughout her long and accomplished life. She is greatly missed.

JoAnna was born on June 4, 1940, in Chicago, IL; the eldest child of Minnie Lindow Stanul and Walter Stanul. The daughter of a naval officer, JoAnna, along with the rest of the Stanul family, relocated numerous times during her childhood as her father rose in rank within the military. Eventually, the Stanul family settled in Florida. It was there where JoAnna spent most of her formative years.

An exceptional student, JoAnna was a member of the National Honor Society, active in choir and the French Club, and held leadership roles in several scholastic organizations. In 1958, she enrolled at the University of Florida, where she focused on Speech, Journalism and English, graduating with high honors in 1962. Shortly after, JoAnna married her love, Marty, and embarked on an impactful and dynamic career in education. In the following years, the couple relocated to Georgia and JoAnna completed her master's at Ga State University. In addition, the family welcomed two wonderful children, Kimberly Ann, and Carl.

JoAnna was a highly respected teacher and mentor, receiving many professional accolades. Yet, JoAnna was most proud of the achievements derived from her relentless fight against institutional prejudices, especially those levied upon students who were economically disadvantaged or classified as special needs. In her own words, "every child deserves the best education imaginable." JoAnna worked tirelessly to make these words a reality through action, deeds and gentle but firm persuasion.

JoAnna delt with the roller coaster of life with strength and grace, including the loss of her mother at the youthful age of 53 and the loss of her oldest child, Kimberly Ann, due to complications associated with a congenital heart defect. But there were highlights along her journey as well, including face-to-face encounters with such icons as Elvis Presley and Pearl S. Buck.

JoAnna retired in 1999 after an illustrious tenure at Clarkston High School in Georgia. She and Marty subsequently move to St. Simons, Georgia, where they both were active members in the Sea Island community. In 2020 they returned to the greater Atlanta area to be near friends and family.

JoAnna is survived by her husband, Martin J. Carey, son, Carl F. Carey, grandson, Lucas Carey-Borras, and her brother, Stanley W. Stanul.

In lieu of flowers, food or material sentiments, the family has requested consideration in the form of a donation in JoAnna's name to your most favored charity.