April 28, 2025
In Loving Memory of Reverend Carroll DeVon “Von” McQueen, Jr.
December 5, 1946 — April 15, 2025
Southern Preparatory Academy mourns the loss of Reverend Carroll DeVon McQueen, Jr., known to many simply as “Von.” A 1966 graduate of Lyman Ward Military Academy, Rev. McQueen was a pillar of strength, faith, and service to our school community for decades.
Born and raised in Mountain Brook, Alabama, Von’s journey after graduation was marked by scholarship, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to his calling. He attended the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), where he earned a degree in political science and was a proud member of the Alpha Tau Omega (ATO) Fraternity. He went on to study law at the Cumberland School of Law before ultimately answering a higher calling to ministry.
Von pursued theological studies at Southwestern Theological Seminary and completed his training at the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. His ministry would go on to impact countless lives, serving as pastor at several churches including First Independent Protestant, Blue Ridge Baptist, Good News Baptist, Thorsby First Baptist, and Safford Baptist Church.
A man of conviction and compassion, Reverend McQueen also served in the Alabama National Guard and remained a tireless advocate for the spiritual and moral development of young men. He returned to his alma mater with that same dedication—becoming one of the first graduates to serve on the Board of Trustees and playing a vital role in establishing our Alumni Association, where he proudly served as its first president.
Von’s leadership and love for the Academy were never more evident than in the early 2000s when he fought to keep our school open during a time of great uncertainty. His deep belief in the Academy’s mission—and in the potential of every young person who walked our halls—remained unwavering.
Throughout his life, Von was a loyal friend, a servant leader, and a man of enduring faith. His favorite scripture, Romans 8:28, guided his every step: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
Von is deeply missed by his loving wife of 47 years, Marydell McDanal McQueen, his children Jonathan, Mandy, and Christopher, and the entire Academy community. He is reunited in peace with his brother, Mike McQueen ’67, who preceded him in death in 2020; and his parents, Carroll DeVon McQueen Sr., and Constance Cole McQueen.
Thank you, Reverend McQueen, for a life of integrity, faith, and service. Your legacy lives on in every cadet who finds strength, purpose, and brotherhood here at Southern Prep.
View Reverend McQueen’s full obituary here.
