The Corky Garden

The Corky Child Care Garden

About Us

Where It All Began

Our Story

The Corky Child Care Garden was born out of a simple dream: to offer the kind of child care our community was missing—deeply personal, high-quality, and wrapped in Southern warmth. What began as a fever dream quickly grew into a vibrant garden of love, learning, and laughter that continues to bloom year after year.

Behind every detail at The Corky is a story. Each location, mascot, and classroom name holds a piece of our founder Jessyca Creasy-Lopez’s heart—and her family’s legacy. As a registered nurse, Jessyca set out to create a place where safety and nurturing go hand in hand, and where every child is treated like one of our own.

Giving Back

The Heart Behind Our Names

Fun Facts

Named after Jessyca’s grandmothers, Cordelia “Corky” and Viola “Violet”, this flagship location honors two women who helped shape Jessyca’s childhood and spirit. Cordelia, “Corky,” still visits the center regularly—proof that our roots run deep and strong.

Lovingly named after Jessyca’s second-born and spiciest daughter, Lili-Ann Freedom Hurter, The Corky Lily is full of sunshine and spark—just like its namesake. Freedom has been part of the Corky journey from the very beginning and now serves as the Director of this location, bringing heart, passion, and high standards to everything she touches.

This location celebrates the power of friendship. It’s named for Jessyca’s lifelong best friends—Jennifer, Amy, and Lisa—who’ve been her support system through every season of motherhood and beyond. Known collectively as “The Magnolias,” they reflect the center’s commitment to respecting every family’s unique parenting style.

Here, every classroom mascot holds meaning.

The Little Stinkers (Skunks) honor Boogie. Look closely at the logo’s flower—you’ll find a “B” for Brenda. Standing just 5 feet tall, Boogie’s impact towers over everything Corky.

The Friendly Foxes wear a “P” on their dog tags for Jessyca’s father, Philip Creasy (lovingly known as “EIO”). A retired Army Green Beret and beloved softball and football coach, Philip is the heart of every friendly interaction and tractor ride.

The Wolf Pups wear a “B” on their ties for Bobby Pack, the original builder of the space now transformed into a cozy, playful haven for children. Though Bobby passed unexpectedly, his legacy lives on in every joyful howl of our little learners.

A Family-Rooted Legacy

Jessyca comes from a long line of caregivers. Her mother, Mrs. Brenda Creasy, affectionately known as “Boogie,” has been THE beloved name in local child care since 1982, running a licensed in-home program for over 40 years. Boogie’s nurturing spirit and lifelong dedication inspired the entire foundation of The Corky.

Why “The Corky”?

Because it’s not just a name—it’s a feeling.
It’s the giggle of a toddler stomping in a rain puddle.
The warmth of a teacher who knows your child’s quirks and joys.
The scent of fresh air and the sound of play that rings across every room and playground.

We’re proud to be deeply rooted in history while always growing toward a brighter, bolder, more connected future.