Memorial Service Announced for Former Miss North Carolina Carrie Everett

The 22-year-old passed away from rare stomach cancer in 2026

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:53pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, high-contrast close-up photograph of a luxurious, shimmering fabric texture in soft, muted tones, conveying the elegance and poise associated with pageant gowns.The memorial service will honor the life and legacy of Carrie Everett, a young woman whose grace and compassion left an indelible mark on her community.Today in Raleigh

Memorial plans have been announced for Carrie Everett, the winner of Miss North Carolina 2024, who passed away from a rare and aggressive gastric cancer at the age of 22 on Easter Sunday 2026. The memorial service will take place on April 18 at noon in the Auburn Performing Arts Center in Auburn, Washington, Everett's home state.

Why it matters

Everett was remembered by many as a fighter and an inspiration to others during her battle with the rare cancer. As the former Miss North Carolina, her passing is a loss felt by the local community and the broader pageant world.

The details

Following her diagnosis with metastatic signet ring cell carcinoma in July 2025, Everett remained in Seattle to undergo chemotherapy and other treatments. She passed the crown of Miss North Carolina to Sophia Kellstrom in 2025 just before her diagnosis. Everett's mentor, Donna Corbett, said Everett remained a fighter until the end, telling Corbett, 'If this doesn't go in the direction Ms. Donna wants it to, it's okay, I will be with my lord.'

  • Everett was diagnosed with metastatic signet ring cell carcinoma in July 2025.
  • Everett passed away on Easter Sunday 2026 at the age of 22.
  • The memorial service for Everett will take place on April 18, 2026 at noon.

The players

Carrie Everett

The winner of Miss North Carolina 2024 who passed away from a rare and aggressive gastric cancer at the age of 22.

Sophia Kellstrom

The woman who took over the Miss North Carolina crown from Everett in 2025 just before her diagnosis.

Donna Corbett

Everett's mentor who remembered her as a fighter who remained faithful until the end.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“She was a fighter, she was going to fight this to the end. She did say to me, 'If this doesn't go in the direction Ms. Donna wants it to, it's okay, I will be with my lord.'”

— Donna Corbett, Everett's mentor

“She was truly the hands and feet of Jesus to everybody. She was an inspiration to others. She loved people like Jesus. She represented this organization, herself, and her faith just absolutely beautifully. That, in my opinion, is what she will be remembered for most.”

— Sophia Kellstrom, Miss North Carolina 2025

What’s next

A memorial service for Everett in North Carolina will be announced at a later date.

The takeaway

Carrie Everett's passing at a young age is a tragic loss for the Miss North Carolina community and the broader pageant world. Her inspiring fight against a rare cancer and her dedication to serving others will be remembered as part of her lasting legacy.