Carolyn McKewen Holy

Carolyn McKewen Holy, age 99, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, in Fairview Heights, Illinois. Born on May 23, 1926, in Jackson, Mississippi, Carolyn lived a life of purpose, service, and lasting impact.

She was a proud graduate of Central High School, Millsaps College, and the Stanford school of Physical Therapy. A pioneer in her field, Carolyn played a key role in establishing the Mississippi chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association, serving as its third president. She was instrumental in founding the Physical Therapy Department at Mississippi Baptist Hospital and devoted the last 20 years of her career to St. Dominics Hospital.

Carolyn’s passion for community and adventure extended beyond her professional life. She was active in the “Loners on Wheels” camping club for singles, the Jackson Amateur Radio Club (known by her call sign KC5OSM), and Levelwoods Methodist Church.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her father, John William McKewen, Sr.; her mother, Libby Lei Graves Mckewen; and her brother, Lt. John WIlliam McKewen, Jr.

She is survived by her children: Carolyn H. Walker, Debbie H. Crocker, and James William Holy.

A graveside service will be held at Lakewood Memorial Park July 18, 2025, at 12:00PM.