Randy Willmon Memorial Firefighter Scholarship Grant

The Randy Willmon Memorial Firefighter Scholarship, established by Steve and Lynn Winston, honors Captain Randy Willmon of the Dallas Fire Department. This scholarship supports deserving high school graduates from Smith County and nearby areas pursuing certification in fire suppression, fire protection technology, or paramedics at Tyler Junior College. It reflects a commitment to education and community service, fostering the next generation of firefighters who embody Randy's legacy of bravery and dedication.

East Texas Communities Foundation
The strong leadership of early organizers like Isadore Roosth, Norman Shtofman, “Dub” Riter, and an investment of the United Way of Tyler/Smith County launched the Foundation. By 1994, the Foundation’s assets had grown to more than one million dollars.
Scholarships
East Texas Communities Foundation administers a variety of scholarships that have been established by generous individuals to assist students with their educational pursuits. Each scholarship expresses a deep belief in the power of education to help young people achieve their dreams.
Randy Willmon held the rank of Captain for the City of Dallas Fire Department, where he served for 28 years. He also served on the Lindale Fire Department for 9 years. Randy set an example of how to live life. He was devoted to loving God, his family, and his many friends. He was a brave firefighter who led by example and a model of what a man should be.
Steve and Lynn Winston established this scholarship, in honor of their special friend to benefit a deserving high school graduate from Smith County and surrounding counties (Gregg, Rusk, Cherokee, Henderson, Upshur, Van Zandt, Wood, Rains and Anderson) to pursue a certification in Basic Fire Suppression Academy, Fire Protection Technology or Paramedics at Tyler Junior College.

Eligibility

Recipient must plan to attend or be a current student at Tyler Junior College in one of the following programs: Basic Fire Suppression Academy, Fire Protection Technology Associates Degree, Basic Firefighter Certification, Fire Service Leadership Certificate or Paramedics Certificate.