Franklin County Creates Scholarship for Basketball Coach

A Franklin County community is turning grief into opportunity by creating a lasting legacy for a coach who shaped countless young lives.

The Roger Purcell Memorial Scholarship will support Franklin County High School basketball players each year, honoring a man who spent nearly two decades coaching youth basketball. A fundraiser on Wednesday, September 2 at O'Charley's in Harrison will help build the scholarship fund, with 15 percent of all sales going directly to the cause.

Roger Purcell, a West Harrison resident and Franklin County High School graduate, was known throughout his community for his devotion to young athletes. He coached youth basketball in CYO and travel leagues for more than 18 years and volunteered as a Little League baseball umpire.

After high school, Roger worked as a carpenter before joining the union as a construction laborer. But his real passion was on the court, where he helped shape the next generation of basketball players.

Roger went missing in June 2024, and his remains were found two years later in southeastern Franklin County. The tragedy affected the entire community, but his mother Ruth and the Franklin County Community Foundation are working together to ensure his impact continues.

Sunny's Take

Sometimes the best way to honor someone is to keep their passion alive. Roger spent nearly two decades showing up for kids, teaching them basketball skills and life lessons on the court. Now, every student who receives this scholarship will carry forward his belief in young people and the power of sports to build character.

The scholarship will be awarded annually to graduating seniors who played basketball at Franklin County High School, ensuring Roger's dedication to youth athletics lives on in every recipient.

Families can support the fundraiser by dining at O'Charley's in Harrison between 11 AM and 10 PM on Wednesday, or contribute directly through the Franklin County Community Foundation at fccfin.org.