Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics, third from left, stands with the family of the late Kay Barnett. The family established the Kay Barnett Memorial Scholarship fund. From left are Mr. Barnett’s son-in-law, Chuck Troxler; daughter, Sherri Troxler; Karolewics; wife, Selma Barnett; son, Stephen Barnett; and daughter-in-law, Kristi Barnett.
HANCEVILLE – The family of the late Kay Barnett recently honored his memory and continued his legacy of support for Wallace State Community College by making a donation to establish the Kay Barnett Memorial Scholarship fund.
Barnett passed away March 2, 2017, at the age of 82. He was a longtime supporter of Wallace State. After retiring from the Navy, he attended the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program at Wallace State. His wife, Selma Barnett, taught at the college; their children and grandchildren have attended Wallace State; Kay Barnett often attended sporting events at the college whenever he could.
Mr. Barnett’s family brought one of his most treasured keepsakes to the check presentation to Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics, a framed Navy Jack, the official U.S. jack of the Navy, bearing the phrase “Don’t Tread on Me.” The flag flew over the U.S. Capitol and on the USS Mullinex DD 94, the last vessel on which Mr. Barnett served.
“We’re sad to do this, but so honored to be able to remember him this way,” said Selma Barnett.
Karolewics told the family a plaque will be placed on the digital billboard on campus to honor and commemorate Mr. Barnett’s support of the college. “We are proud to honor him,” Karolewics said. “He meant a lot to the college.”
Contributions to the Kay Barnett Memorial Scholarship fund can be made through the Wallace State Future Foundation. Visit www.wsccfuturefoundation.org or call 256-352-8144.
