Carey is a native Georgian.  He is a 2002 graduate of Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, KY.  Prior to entering the ministry Carey spent twenty years in Information Technology.  During these years he worked for EDS in Dallas, Texas, and Consultec, Inc. in Atlanta, Georgia.  Carey grew up in the Decatur area where he attended Druid Hills High School and later moved to North Avenue in Atlanta where he attended the university in Georgia, Georgia Tech.
Carey's wife Lynn was born in Germany while her father was serving in the Armed Services of the United States.  Her early years were spent in the Dallas, Texas area.  Her family moved to Atlanta when she was eleven.               
Lynn and Carey have five children (includes two sons-in-law).  Carey and Lynn have been members of the United Methodist Church for more than twenty years.  Prior to entry into the ministry, Carey and Lynn were very active laity in the church.  They participated in the UMM, UMW, teaching Sunday School and Bible studies, serving on various committees including several stints on the Staff Parish Relations committee, local and foreign missions, Lay Witness missions, and the Walk to Emmaus.