Tragic Loss: Carrie Everett Dies After Aggressive Cancer Battle
Carrie Everett, a rising leader in the pageant world and the first HBCU student to win Miss North Carolina, has died after battling a rare and aggressive form of gastric cancer. Her family confirmed that she passed away on Easter Sunday, surrounded by loved ones.
In a heartfelt statement, her family shared, “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 news has left many in the pageant, HBCU, and broader community mourning the loss of a young woman whose life and voice carried deep meaning.
Her passing comes less than a year after she publicly revealed her diagnosis of metastatic signet ring cell carcinoma in July 2025. Despite the seriousness of her illness, Everett remained a symbol of strength, purpose, and grace.
Historic Win: First HBCU Student to Earn the Miss North Carolina Crown
Before her passing, Everett made a powerful mark in history when she won the Miss North Carolina title in 2024 while attending North Carolina Central University. Her victory stood out not only because of her talent and presence, but also because she represented a new path for HBCU students in pageantry.
As a student at the Durham-based university, Everett impressed judges with her leadership, talent, and commitment to uplifting young women. Her win quickly became a moment of pride for HBCUs across the country, showing that excellence from these institutions belongs on every stage.
She also spoke openly about the challenges behind the crown, including the financial demands of competing. Rather than hide those struggles, she leaned on her community for support, showing transparency and determination that inspired many.
Advocacy and Impact: Using Her Platform to Expand Opportunities for Women
Everett’s reign was defined by more than her title. She used her platform to push for change within the pageant industry, especially around access and inclusion. Through her initiative, We Need Equity to Build Communities, she worked to create more opportunities for women from diverse backgrounds.
“We are advocating for recruiting more girls from different backgrounds into this organization,” she said. “I am advocating for wardrobe classes funding for accessibility in this organization.” Her focus was clear—she wanted to remove barriers that often keep talented young women from participating.
She also made it a point to encourage HBCU students to dream bigger. “I can be the first but not the last,” Everett once said. “I want young women… attending HBCUs that this opportunity is for them.” Her words continue to resonate as a call for inclusion and representation.
Remembering Carrie Everett: A Life of Purpose, Talent, and Promise
Beyond pageantry, Everett was a passionate student and artist. She was pursuing a degree in vocal performance and had plans to graduate in 2027. Known as an avid gospel singer, she brought both talent and heart to everything she did.
Leaders at her university also paid tribute to her legacy. Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon described her as someone whose presence left a lasting impact. “Carrie will be remembered as a trailblazer who shared her inspirational talent and leadership with so many. Her ambition, grace, tenacity and talent will be deeply missed.”
Although her life was cut short, Everett’s influence continues to live on. Her journey—from a student with a dream to a titleholder who used her voice for change—remains a powerful reminder of what purpose-driven leadership looks like.
