Miss Johnston County 2024 And Former Miss North Carolina Carrie Everett Dies After Cancer Battle

JOHNSTON COUNTY, N.C. — The community is mourning the loss of Carrie Everett, Miss Johnston County 2024 and former Miss North Carolina, who passed away Sunday after a courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by family and friends in the Seattle, Washington, area.

Everett, age 22, a student at North Carolina Central University in Durham, was diagnosed in 2024 with a rare and aggressive form of cancer called signet ring cell carcinoma. Despite her illness, she remained committed to her studies and to advocacy work, focusing on making pageants more accessible and inclusive for young women from all backgrounds.

In a family statement, her loved ones said: “Carrie Everett transitioned on Easter Sunday with her family and friends surrounding her with love. The family is spending time together as they celebrate her memory. They ask that you continue to pray for them and celebrate her memory.”

The Miss Johnston County & Miss Cleveland Organization shared a heartfelt statement: “Our Angel 🪽 To know her was to know that standing on the Miss America stage was one of her dreams. She did it, and we were honored that she chose our local back in January 2024. She was brought into our lives for a purpose greater than us, and she’s left her mark on this committee, community, and state. We will keep her radiant spirit alive in all that we do. Forever our Miss JoCo 2024 and Miss North Carolina 2024.”

Carrie made history as the first current HBCU student to be crowned Miss North Carolina and was celebrated for her leadership, compassion, and dedication to her community. She inspired countless people with her grace, perseverance, and infectious positivity.

A GoFundMe has been established to support the family with medical costs, funeral expenses, and ongoing financial needs. The pageant and local communities have rallied around her loved ones in this difficult time.

Carrie Everett will be remembered not only for her accomplishments as Miss Johnston County 2024 and Miss North Carolina, but for the grace and warmth she brought to the community. Her impact on Johnston County will be felt for years to come, and residents continue to honor her memory.