Carey’s Family Photos. Carey believes that family is the most important thing. Her mother, who passed away from ovarian cancer, always told Carey to “Believe in Yourself.” Carey uses this philosophy in her everyday life, even when things get rough. Her father, a US Marine and Vietnam Veteran who passed away, taught her to be a “Strong little soldier.” Her parents taught her not to quit until she attained her goals. Carey lives by this everyday.