Milligan receives scholarship

Image: Josh Milligan, Scholarship Recipient — Josh Milligan, Italy Class of 2010, was the awardee of the Kayrene Uehlinger Scholarship.

Josh Milligan, Scholarship Recipient — Josh Milligan, Italy Class of 2010, was the awardee of the Kayrene Uehlinger Scholarship. (Lauren Geralds)

On Sunday, April 18, 2010, Joshua Milligan, son of Keith and Becky Milligan of Italy, was presented the 2010 Kayrene Uehlinger Scholarship at Central Baptist Church. Ronnie Clanton, a friend and classmate of Uehlinger, presented the scholarship on behalf of the Italy High School Class of 1968.

While attending Italy High School, Joshua Milligan has been active in baseball, National Honor Society, Student Council, University Interscholastic League competition and the High School Leadership Program. He plans to attend Stephen F. Austin University after graduation.

Kayrene Thompson Uehlinger was born on April 20, 1950 in Waxahachie. She attended Italy schools from grades 1-12, graduating in 1968. She participated in basketball, numerous school organizations and was head majorette in 1968. She was voted senior class favorite and best personality her senior year.

Kayrene married Homer Uehlinger of Milford on September 20, 1969. They had two children; son, Jason, and daughter, Jamie both of whom graduated from Italy High School. Kayrene was an active member and Sunday school teacher at Central Baptist Church in Italy.

Kayrene worked in Dallas for Ernest & Young CPA Firm for over 28 years where she was a highly valued and much loved employee.

On August 9, 2007, Kayrene lost a valiant 13 year battle against cancer. Her bravery and faith were a true testament to her character and her legacy. She will always be with her family and friends in wonderful memories.

The Kayrene Uehlinger Scholarship was established in 2008 by the Italy High School Class of 1968 and includes funds from classmates, family, church members and friends. It was established as a memorial to her to assist a graduating senior and active member of Central Baptist Church to further his/her education. Kayrene was active in Central Baptist Church and was committed to the youth of the church and the Italy Community.

Previous recipients were J.R. Hill in 2008 and Tyler Boyd in 2009. To donate to the scholarship or for more information contact Karen Mathiowetz at 972-483-7434.