Jonathan Carey-Voris (nee Van Voorhis)

Jonathan Carey-Voris (nee Van Voorhis) 80, of Crystal Lake Park, MO passed peacefully Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Mercy Hospital South deGreeff Hospice House. He was born in Lansing, Michigan, the son of Opal (Schultz) and William Van Voorhis, and graduated from Lansing Sexton High School in 1962. Jonathan earned his bachelor’s degree in English from Reed College, Portland, OR, where he developed his interest in the lifeworks of the Irish writer, James Joyce. Following graduation, Jonathan worked as a librarian in New York City, nurturing his appreciation for literature. Jonathan traveled to Europe and followed the path of James Joyce’s research which he applied to his master’s degree in English from the University of Tulsa. Jonathan was an editor of training manuals at the Spartan School of Aeronautics where he met his beloved wife of 30 years, Elizabeth Carey-Voris. In the early 1980’s they moved to St. Louis to work for McDonnell Douglas, and eventually Boeing. Jonathan and Elizabeth succeeded in their respective careers developing essential engineering-based technical brochures, plus training and promotional brochures and videos. Jonathan’s work as Senior Quality Auditor guided training development of the US Navy’s F/A-18 Hornet, plus numerous other iconic Boeing aircraft. Upon retirement, Jonathan continued his appreciation for education and commenced French Language classes at Alliance Francaise de St Louis, where he mastered both spoken and written French, and developed a warm, loving collection of friends dedicated to the French culture. Jonathan loved reading a wide variety of literature and enjoyed a range of movie genres plus French Soap Operas on television. Jonathan generously commanded the role of Communications Coordinator and Deputy City Clerk for the City of Crystal Lake Park, his longtime neighborhood. He was affectionately recognized as their “Town Crier,” and worked diligently at keeping all neighbors informed of topical events and information. Jonathan’s energy and love for life was fueled by his exercise regimen at the Jewish Community Center where trainers led him in Yoga, Pilates and other essential workouts. Jonathan’s friends admired his boundless curiosity, sharp wit, clever sense of humor, passion for life and dedication to living the “Golden Rule.” He was admired by his friends and neighbors for his colorful stories which brought a smile to anyone he engaged. Jonathan was known for his personalized, hand-crafted, witty cards that honored his friends’ birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions. His conduct proceeded from goodwill, and an acute sense of propriety that emphasized humility and the rights and feelings of others. A celebration of Jonathan’s life will be held at the Alliance Francaise de St. Louis. Jonathan is being served by Valhalla Chapel & Bellerive Gardens Cemetery.

Tributes

Jonathan Carey-Voris (nee Van Voorhis)

December 30, 1944 - April 27, 2025