Audrey "Mrs. Honey" Carrico, lovingly known as "Honey" and "Ms. Honey" to so many, passed away peacefully at her home in Groveton, Texas, on April 23, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 8, 1960, in Livingston, Texas, to Audie Smith and Doris Reeves Spears. Originally from Corrigan, Texas, Audrey later made Groveton her forever hometown, where she became a cherished and unforgettable part of the community.
Honey attended school in Corrigan-Camden ISD, where her outgoing personality shined brightly from an early age. She played volleyball, was a cheerleader, and was active in Brownies and Girl Scouts during her younger years. She was Baptist by faith and attended First Baptist Church of Corrigan while growing up. Later, she became a member of Wakefield Baptist Church, where she married her high school sweetheart, David Carrico, on December 31, 1976. In later years, she and her family also attended church services in Trinity, Texas from time to time. Her faith remained an important part of her life, and as a little girl she faithfully said her bedtime prayers, later passing that same tradition on to her children and grandchildren: "Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep."
Mrs. Honey absolutely loved working at Groveton ISD, where she became a favorite substitute teacher and a bright light to students of all ages. From elementary to junior high and high school, her contagious kindness and joyful spirit filled the campus. Students adored "Ms. Honey" for her warm hugs, her smiles, her laughter, and the comfort she brought into their days. During her illness, the many cards sent by students spoke volumes about the impact she had on their lives. She had a unique way of making children laugh, even in difficult moments, and her presence made every classroom a little brighter. One student fondly remembered that if you were not quiet, you might get a tiny piece of ice tossed your way. It was just one of the many playful and loving ways she connected with those around her. Honey never met a stranger and loved everyone she encountered.
Above all, Honey loved her family with her whole heart. Her children and grandchildren were her life, and her husband of forty-nine years, David, was her number one. She was honest, spirited, and full of life, always telling it like it was whether you wanted to hear it or not. That boldness, along with her deep love and laughter, made her truly one of a kind.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Maggie Doris Reeves Smith Spears; her father, Audie Smith; her sister, Wanda Smith Collum; her brothers, Rennie Loyd Hance, and Teddy Lee Hance; her grandfather, Rennie Reeves; and her grandmother, Ida Reeves.
She is survived by her loving husband of forty-nine years, David Carrico; her children, daughter Amy Blair and fiancé Troy Grice, and son Jeremy Carrico and wife Cindy Carrico; her grandchildren, Jessica Parker and husband Ricky, Justin Wars and fiancée Katie Yates, Emily Glenn and husband Hayden, Chasity Blair, and Chase Blair; her great-grandchildren, Braylie and Blakely Parker, Chason, Wrenlee, and Stetson Wars, and Carter Glenn; her siblings, Ed Hance and wife Patsy, Cecil Hance and wife Sherry, Shelia Smith, and Bo Smith; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many dear friends.
The family will receive visitors beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026, until the time of the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at Groveton Funeral Home, with Bro. Charlie Hodge officiating. Interment will follow at Glenwood Cemetery in Groveton, Texas.
Pallbearers will be Chase Blair, David Ayala, Ian Utz, Asa Stewart, Jeremy Carrico, Justin Wars, Troy Grice, and Josh Duncan. Honorary pallbearers will be Randy Meshell, Royce Carrico, Brint Dial, Lyndell Thompson, Hayden Glenn, and Brad Rasbeary.
Audrey "Mrs. Honey" Carrico leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, laughter, and kindness. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, her students, her friends, and all who were blessed to know her.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to request that donations be made directly to the funeral home to help to cover the funeral expenses due to past medical expenses. This would be very much appreciated.