Harriet Lamar Avery, 79, of Mooresville, N.C., passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025. She was born in Atlanta, Ga., to Willene Capers Kitchens and Harrison Lamar Avery.

A lifelong educator and mentor, Lamar spent the majority of her career as a beloved teacher at Brawley Middle School, where she retired after many years of service. Known for her warmth, wit, and fierce dedication to her students, Lamar shaped the lives of countless children and families. She was once honored as Teacher of the Year, which is just one of many testaments to the lasting impact she made in the classroom.

She is survived by her son, Brandon Brooks of Fayetteville, Ark., and her sister, Andrea Longenecker of Greensboro, N.C.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, George Murrow, in 2014.

Harriet’s legacy lives on in the students she inspired, the friends she cherished, and the family who loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 20, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Cavin-Cook Funeral Home.

Cavin-Cook Funeral Home and Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Avery family. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.