Rev. Eugene Stanley Carey

Rev. Eugene Stanley “Gene” Carey, of Philippi, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at United Hospital Center.

Gene was born January 31, 1949, in Baltimore, Maryland, a son of the late Paul James and Blanche Dorothy (Bennett) Carey. He shared 60 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Patricia Lucille (McVicker) Carey. Together, Gene and Patricia built a life centered around faith, family, hard work, and service to others.

Gene was a man of many talents and a strong work ethic. For more than 32 years, he worked as a builder in the construction industry, using his hands and skills to build and create. He also spent more than 32 years as a school bus driver for Barbour County Schools. Through the years, he became a familiar and trusted face to generations of local students and families.

Gene had a lifelong love for horses. He enjoyed raising and riding horses, an interest that brought him many years of happiness and countless memories.

Above all else, Gene’s life was devoted to his faith and his calling to ministry. For 52 years, he served as minister of New Life Worship Center. His ministry was much more than a position—it was his life’s calling. Throughout more than five decades of service, Gene shared his faith, offered encouragement and guidance, and was there for others during some of the most important and difficult moments of their lives. His love for the Lord was reflected not only from the pulpit, but also in the way he lived and cared for those around him.

Gene deeply loved his family and treasured the time he was able to spend with them. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Patricia Lucille (McVicker) Carey; daughter, Renee Howdershelt and husband, Melvin; son, Mark Carey and wife, Dawn; nephew, Ronnie Carey; grandchildren, Bradley Howdershelt and wife, Desiree, Mark Carey II and wife, Shana, Seth Howdershelt and wife, Lauren, Marissa Carey, and Zach Howdershelt and wife, Hannah; and great-grandchildren, Alanna, Tobias, Ava, Ezra, Makenna, Sutton, Owen, Gentry, Thomas, Wade, Nora, and Sable.

He is also survived by his brother, Michael Carey.

In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his siblings, Patsy Miller and Kenneth Carey.

The family will welcome friends at the New Life Worship Center 5469 Nestorville Rd. Philippi on Wednesday September 23, from 5:00 to 8:00 pm, and on Thursday September 24, from 12:00 to 2:00 pm.  Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 pm with Rev. Bradley Howdershelt officiating.