At the end of each school year, thousands and thousands of dollars are showered upon the graduates of Gloucester and Mathews high schools. Civic groups work all year to raise funds. Large foundations manage funds left for the purpose. Many organizations, businesses and individuals do what they can to help the up-and-coming generation get a step ahead in the pursuit of expensive higher education.

Each year, as we assemble the lists of scholars receiving scholarships, we are astonished anew at the long-reaching generosity of our citizens. Many of them established scholarships in their wills, and their names live on in the annual grants. Among the grantors are also living citizens who have the opportunity to witness how well their money is put to use.

All have invested in the development of young minds and new citizens. We are in their debt.

Among the names living forever through the scholarships at GHS and MHS this year are some who died decades ago, some of more recent memory,...