Beverly McKnight Carr

Beverly McKnight Carr 1942 - 2025

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Beverly McKnight Carr, who departed this life on July 19, 2025, at the age of 82. Surrounded by her family,

Beverly leaves behind an enduring legacy of faith, integrity, and resilience that deeply touched the lives of all who knew her.

Visitation and services were held on July 26, from 1PM until services at 3PM at Hartman-Jones Funeral Home. Dr. Victor Walsh and Dr. David Millican did officiate and burial was in Hollywood Cemetery.

Beverly was born on September 12, 1942, in Amite County, to Earl and Johnnie McKnight. Her education began at East Fork School and Liberty High School, continued at SMCC, and culminated at the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor of Arts in Education.

She married Lynwood Carr in 1963 and started her teaching career in Batesville, MS, while Lynwood completed Pharmacy School at Ole Miss. Beverly later earned her Master of Education degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.

After moving to McComb, Beverly taught for 40 years in the McComb Public School system, notably in the QUEST program for gifted and talented students. She led students to compete in Odyssey of the Mind, winning multiple state titles and participating at the national level. Her career was recognized with numerous Certificates of Appreciation and Meritorious Service Awards.

Beverly was a member of East Mc-Comb Baptist Church (now New Heights), where she taught Sunday School, Girls in Action, and assisted with the Children’s Choir. She helped start The Bible Drill program and served as supervisor for the Pike County Baptist Association.

Later, as a member of First Baptist Church in McComb, she served as Children’s Choir Director, participated in and taught adult handbells, and continued to run The Bible Drill program.

Beverly also played handbells at Centenary Methodist Church whenever possible. Her mission was to ensure her students truly understood the verses they learned.

In addition to her educational and church work, Beverly served as a Band Booster, Piano Teacher, and Scout Troop Leader, giving back to her community in numerous ways. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Educators Sorority, served as treasurer for many years, and received the Woman of Distinction Award. The McComb Exchange Club honored her with The Golden Deeds Award.

Beverly leaves behind a powerful legacy of Christian influence among those she taught and worked alongside. She was known for her remarkable organizational talent and unwavering commitment to her students, colleagues, and community.

The family extends their sincerest thanks to Hospice Compassus for their ongoing support and compassionate care for Beverly and her family. Special appreciation is given to nurses Leah, Ashley, Sydney, Corey, Jennifer, and Jackie; aids Brenda, Kya, Katrina, and Chameka; extra angels Tasha, Rhonda, and Miss Bobbie; and to Shannon for providing steadfast guidance and support during Beverly’s transition.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Johnnie McKnight; her in-laws, Harold and Frankie Carr; sister-in-law Sarah Lenoir; brothers-in-law Don Smith and James Lenoir; and nephew Geoffrey Allen.

She is survived by her husband, Lynwood Carr; children Kenneth Carr and Kristi Carr; sister Dickie Lynn (Ronnie) DeHabermann; sister-in-law Kay Smith; nieces Chalise (Tim) O’Quinn, Sonya (Jason) Pickens, Amy Lenoir; and nephews Scott (Alex) Smith and Daniel Allen.

The family requests that, instead of flowers, donations be made to Hospice Compassus or a charity of your choice.