Community creates memorial scholarship

Paragould, Arkansas – By establishing a scholarship in Amber Gill’s honor, a community wants to carry on her legacy.

In 2020, an automobile accident claimed the life of Amber Gill.

She was a wife, a mother, a realtor, and a friend. However, she was well-known for her love of volunteering in the community of Paragould.

“I believe my mom was a pillar of this community for the longest of times and she still had lots more work to do,” said Jacob Higdon, Gill’s son. “It’s just left the biggest hole in my life.”

Higdon referred to his mother as his best friend, and the past year without her has been challenging.

He is aware that her absence is shared by the neighborhood.

“Someone is always telling me how much they miss her and how much they mean to her. Her personality was such a bright spot in their day,” he said.

By creating a scholarship in her honor, Gill’s friends are ensuring that she keeps having an impact on her community.

Virginia Walls, one of those friends, stated that the neighborhood still misses her.

“She was a great friend to many people in this community and has helped this community in many ways,” she said.

Because Gill cared so deeply about education, according to Walls, the Amber Gill Memorial Scholarship will be beneficial.

Walls hopes the recipients of the scholarships are much like the woman who inspired them.

“Somebody with high goals and who wants to serve other people,” she said.

Although Higdon will never be able to completely fill the emptiness left by his mother’s passing, he can’t help but feel proud of her when he sees others carrying on her goal to help others.

November is the date set for the trial of the man who was detained and accused of killing Gill.

Jace Simpson is accused of committing a negligent homicide, driving while intoxicated, and possessing a prohibited narcotic.

To raise money for the scholarship, a GoFundMe page has been established.

Additionally, contributions can be given to the First National Bank of Paragould’s “Amber Gill Memorial Scholarship Fund” account.