Roane State Press Release:
The Cumberland County community stepped up to honor one of its own, funding a new Roane State Foundation scholarship for aspiring criminal justice students in memory of the late Larry V. Sherrill.
In just 16 days, a whirlwind of support garnered more than $25,000 in donations – a Roane State record for a community-driven scholarship endowment.
Sherrill, who passed away last year at the age of 58, spent most of his life in public service. He worked for the school system and local law enforcement before serving 20 years as Cumberland County’s Circuit Court Clerk. Family and friends described him as a strong believer in justice and a tireless advocate for fairness and second chances.
“I knew there had to be a way to honor him and keep that legacy alive,” said Gerry Cox, one of Sherrill’s longtime friends. “Starting this scholarship, especially in criminal justice, felt like the right way to continue what he stood for.”
Gerry’s wife Hannah said a simple idea to honor their friend turned into something much bigger, with connection after connection falling into place, ultimately leading them to Roane State and the scholarship program managed by the college’s non-profit Foundation.
Once the plan was finalized, Gerry and Hannah shared their vision on social media and the support quickly followed. Donations began coming in every day. Then an anonymous donor also reached out to help.
“While decorating for Easter at church, I received a call I will never forget,” Hannah Cox said. “An anonymous couple who knew Larry wanted to give the remaining amount we needed, bringing us to $25,000 and fully funding the first Larry V. Sherrill Criminal Justice Scholarship.”
“Standing there at the cross when that call came in is something I will always carry with me,” Hannah said. “It was a reminder that this was bigger than all of us. Every single person who gave – whether it was $1, $100, or more – helped make that possible.”
To recognize those who launched and helped fund the memorial scholarship endowment, Roane State organized a special reception on April 27 at the Cumberland County Campus.
Donors, friends, and family members gathered for the event. Larry’s wife, Lea Ann Sherrill, spoke about what the effort has meant to their family.
“This scholarship continues Larry’s passion for helping people,” Lea Ann said. “He had a kind heart and was always on a mission to help in whatever area was presented to him. He swore to protect and serve with his first role and carried it with him through his entire career. Thank you for allowing the opportunity to carry that passion on through this scholarship.”
Roane State President Chris Whaley and Scott Niermann, executive director of Roane State Foundation, also thanked supporters at the reception for their tremendous work.
“In talking with those who knew him best, it is clear Larry never met a stranger,” President Whaley said. “He was cherished by this community for his unwavering dedication to those in need – a profound kindness that defined his life. This scholarship will empower the next generation of public servants to follow in his footsteps.”
“I believe with all my heart that when Larry took his last breath, he heard, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant,’ and now his legacy will serve others for years to come,” Hannah Cox said.
With the first goal met, a new goal of $50,000 has been set to support even more students as the endowment grows. The total amount raised so far is $28,000.
For information on how to give to the Larry V. Sherrill Criminal Justice Scholarship for Roane State students in Cumberland County, visit roanestate.edu/larryvsherrill.
