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PARKERSBURG — Members of the Parkersburg High School Class of 2007 have partnered with the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation to create the John Mason Roberts Memorial Scholarship, a fund honoring the life and legacy of their classmate and friend, John “Mason” Roberts.

Roberts passed away on June 22, 2010, but his memory continues to live on in the hearts of all who knew him, according to a press release from PACF.

In celebration of their upcoming 20-year high school reunion in 2027, his classmates have come together to launch this scholarship to ensure his values and spirit are carried forward by future generations of PHS students.

The scholarship will make its first award in the spring of 2027 and will be given annually to a graduating senior from PHS who has participated in and excelled at PHS athletics, maintains at least a 2.5 GPA, and embodies the drive, sportsmanship, and heart that Roberts demonstrated throughout his life, the release said.

“Creating this scholarship is our way of keeping Mason’s legacy alive in a meaningful and lasting way,” said Jessica Wherry, PHS Class of 2007. “He was more than an athlete, he was a friend, a leader, and someone who brought joy into your life.”

Born on July 23, 1989, in Parkersburg, Roberts was known for his warmth, charisma, and natural ability to connect with others, the release said. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in everyday life, he carried himself with an infectious energy that brought people together and his passion for helping others, both people and animals, was evident in all aspects of his life, the release said.

From his early days at Greenmont Elementary, he quickly became known for his warm heart and friendly nature. He starred as the Nutcracker in the school play, danced in the sixth grade talent show, and played on the basketball team, the release said.

His athletic journey continued through Jackson Junior High and PHS, where he was a captain of the Big Reds football team and helped lead them to a state championship in his senior year.

After graduating with honors from PHS, Mason pursued a degree in Exercise Physiology at West Virginia University, aspiring to become a chiropractor.

At this time, the fund has not yet reached the $25,000 minimum required to be classified as a permanent endowment. Members of the PHS Class of 2007 invite the community to contribute to help grow the fund to $25,000 by December 31, 2026. Reaching this goal will allow the fund to make annual awards in perpetuity. If the goal is not met, the fund will still make a one-time award to a 2027 graduating PHS senior. All donations are tax-deductible.

Individuals who wish to support the fund may do so by mailing a check, made payable to the PACF with John Mason Roberts Memorial Scholarship on the memo line, to PACF, PO Box 1762, Parkersburg, WV 26102. Donations may also be made online at www.pacfwv.com/give.

For more information about the scholarship or how to give, contact the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation by calling 304-428-4438 or by emailing info@pacfwv.com