JoAnn Carrin Obituary

JoAnn Carrin, 69, a lifelong resident of Tallahassee, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, surrounded by love and family. Born in 1956, JoAnn was the daughter of Joseph S. and Martha P. Carrin, who cherished her deeply and nurtured in her a lifelong sense of compassion, curiosity, and commitment to others.
A proud alumna of Florida State University, JoAnn earned her degree in Criminology before beginning her long and distinguished career in public service. She first worked in the Florida court system before joining the administration of Governor Bob Graham, where she worked on the Organized Crime Task Force, driven by a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of the people of Florida. Over the next three decades, she served in a variety of key roles across state government, including in the Office of Professional Practices and later as Director of Communications for the Department of Education, before moving to serve as Communications Director in the Office of the Attorney General. She went on to found and serve as the first director of the Governor's Office of Open Government under Governor Charlie Crist. She later continued her service in the Division of Blind Services, where she helped improve programs that empower Floridians with visual impairments.
Respected for her integrity, professionalism, and dedication to public trust, JoAnn was equally known for her loyalty, wit, and warmth. She loved reading, Seminole and NFL football, and spending time at the beaches of St. George Island and Alligator Point. She also had a lifelong affection for poodles, especially her beloved Lucy Carrin, who remains a cherished member of the family. Above all, she treasured spending time with her grandchildren.
JoAnn is survived by her mother, Martha P. Carrin; brothers, Michael and Patrick Carrin; sister-in-law and friend, Lisa Carrin; sons, Chris and Gregory Skinner; friend and unofficial daughter, Quinn Townsend; grandchildren, Leah, Olivia, Elliot, and Emmett Skinner; and cousins, Pat Teague (Randy), Jean Cottrell (Ronnie), Stacy Lee (Debbie), and Cathy Lee. She was preceded in death by her father, Joseph S. Carrin.
A memorial service will be held at noon on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Bevis Funeral Home, 200 John Knox Road, Tallahassee, Florida, followed by a graveside service at MeadowWood Memorial Park, 700 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, Florida.
JoAnn will be remembered for her grace, loyalty, and lifelong commitment to both family and community - and for a life defined by service, compassion, and integrity.
Kelly Barber & Niki Carney of Bevis Funeral Home (www.bevisfh.com or 850-385-2193) are assisting the Carrin family with their arrangements.