The 2015 Recipients of the R. Wayne ‘Bubba’ Alexander, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund included Kahlia Alexander (VECA), Kirbi Arnold (Open Bible), Folton Barker (LHS), Ian Bennett (LHS), Breanna Box (VHS), Makayla Hoffman (LHS), Taylor Huerta (LHS), Leah Michael (VHS), Adam Murphy (VHS), Morgan Perry (VHS), David Posas (VHS), Cora Pyles (LHS), Josie Smith (VHS).

VALDOSTA —  One family turned a tragic loss into a bright future for South Georgia students.

Thirteen local students were given scholarships in honor of R. Wayne “Bubba” Alexander.

Alexander lived a life that truly inspired all who knew him and always sought to put a smile on everyone’s face, according to the family. Tragically, he lost his life to spinal meningitis at the age of 16. He was a junior at Lowndes High School at the time.

His parents, Wayne and Barbara Alexander, and sister state Rep. Amy Alexander Carter felt the best way to honor “Bubba” Alexander was to give back to the community in his name.

“This scholarship has served as an excellent way to give back to area students in the name of my loving brother,” said Carter, who now runs the fund with the help of her brother’s lifelong friends. “Bubba’s friends have been a true blessing to this board and truly put their heart and soul into keeping his memory alive.”

The scholarship provides assistance for high school students in Lowndes County who have an ability and desire to achieve academic success despite adversities. Financial need is also taken into account with the scholarship.

For more than 20 years, the funds have continued growing, with this year bringing in $26,000. The amount allowed 13 students to receive $2,000 a piece to put toward their college careers.

The 2015 Lowndes High School recipients are Folton Barker, Ian Bennett, Makayla Hoffman, Taylor Huerta and Cora Pyles.

Valdosta High School recipients are Breanna Box, Leah Michael, Adam Murphy, Morgan Perry, David Posas and Josie Smith.

Kahlia Alexander of VECA and Kirbi Arnold of Open Bible are also recipients.

Donations to the scholarship fund can be made online at www.bascholarship.org. Student applications can also be found on the website.

Donations can also be mailed to R. Wayne “Bubba” Alexander Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 2224, Valdosta, Ga. 31604.