Carlotta Jean Carey

Carlotta Jean Carey, affectionately known as Jeannie, Aunt Jean, Auntie, Gram, Big Sis, and "Mean Jean", peacefully departed this life on February 18, 2025. Born on April 23, 1943, at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA, Jeannie was the second of five children born to the late Joseph and Corrine Brailsford. She grew up on the North Side of Pittsburgh in a neighborhood once known as "The Ward", now rebranded the North Shore. She was educated at Allegheny High School. Throughout her childhood, she frequently traveled to Youngstown, Ohio, to visit family and friends, forming bonds that would last a lifetime.

In her early years, Jeannie married Ernest Carey, and together they made their home on the North Side of Pittsburgh. A devoted homemaker, Jeannie's talents as a seamstress and cook were unmatched. She often used the proceeds from her cooking and sewing to support her siblings and children, always ensuring that those she loved were cared for. After her marriage ended, she moved to St. Clair Village.

It was during this time that Jeannie and Fred Simpson bonded. He was her rock and devoted partner who lovingly supported her in raising their eight children. Fred was the "Hero" in the family and Jeannie was the "Legend".

St. Clair Village was blessed to have Jeannie as part of its community. She played an integral role in running a local market and also managed the Bell Lounge alongside her cousin and brother at heart, Charlie Ponds. Known for her sharp mind and skill at playing cards, Jeannie was an excellent player and found joy and camaraderie at the card table.

In 1988, Jeannie moved to 723 Pennwood Avenue in Wilkinsburg, PA--a home that became a cornerstone of love, laughter, and community; fondly remembered as "the house where the action never stopped". She welcomed and nurtured many over the years, extending her warmth and generosity to many beyond her own family.

Jeannie was preceded in death by her parents; devoted partner Fred Simpson; her brothers, Meredith "Mert: Napier and Samuel "Sammy" Brailsford; her sister Gladys "Glady" Fields; her beloved son, Ernest "Ernie" Carey; her cherished grandchildren, Nadale Brown, Lamont Carey, and Darnell "Toogie" Carey

She leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, cherished by her sister Reverend Mary Beasley, sons, Morrow Carey, Valinn Carey, Darnell (Tonya) Carey, and DuWayne (Tracy) Carey; her daughters, Kimberly Carey, Tracy (William) Benson, and Yolanda (Paul) Mollett; as well as a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, dear friends, big sister Shirley Claibourne-Griggs, and sister-in-law Eleanor Sadar.

Jeannie's life was a testament to resilience, generosity, and love. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those she touched,

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