Michael Carlton Carey
Michael Carlton Carey, age 82, of Toccoa, Georgia, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026.
Born in Franklin County, Georgia December 26, 1943, to the late Chester and Nonia Haggard Carey, Mike spent most of his life living, working, and raising his family in the Toccoa community he loved.
Mike proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, a period of service that shaped his lifelong commitment to hard work, integrity, and service to others. Following his military service, he returned home and continued to build a respected career as the owner of Mike’s Service Center, which he operated for more than 40 years. Known for his honesty, fun loving spirit, and willingness to help others, Mike became a trusted friend to countless customers over the decades. After retiring from his business, he continued to stay active in the community, working for Toccoa Rental for an additional 10 years.
Mike was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife, Libby Carey; daughters Jana Cheek and her husband Russell, and Judi St. Clair; and his son Jeff Carey and his wife Gina. He was a proud grandfather to Jace Carey, John Parker Carey, Eli St. Clair, and Lee Cheek, each of whom brought him immense joy; bonus daughters, Ashley (Scott) Campbell and Amy (Will) Cox. He also leaves behind his beloved dog, Tiny, who was always by his side. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty.
A man of quiet strength, steady humor, and deep kindness, Mike was admired for the way he treated others—with patience, respect, and a servant’s heart. Whether working in his station, helping a customer, or spending time with family, he lived a life marked by loyalty, love, and some good-hearted pranks if you were lucky.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026, 3 p.m.in the Hillcrest Chapel of the Acree-Davis Funeral Home in Toccoa with the Reverend Jerrell Beatty and Mr. Jeff Carey officiating. Pallbearers will be his grandsons, Jace Carey, Parker Carey, Eli St. Clair, along with friends Mark Randall, Darryl Addison, and Richard Towe. Honorary pallbearers will be Albert Murray, Larry Poole, Larry Mealor and Mitty Higginbotham.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, from 1 p.m. until the service time. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.acree-davisfh.com.
Flowers are optional. Memorials made be made to Tates Creek Baptist Church, P.O. Box 519, Toccoa, Georgia 30577 in memory of Mr. Mike Carey.
Interment will follow in the Stephens Memorial Gardens with the Acree-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory in charge of the arrangements for Michael “Mike” Carlton Carey.
