It has often been said that our loved ones never truly die; that they live on in memory and the way we honor them. On Sunday March 27, 2022, Sevier County lost one of its own, Candice Thompson, in a tragic hiking accident.

Nearly a year later, her memory lives on as the community exemplifies Candice’s light and example. Most recently, her husband Colton started a scholarship for local students in his wife’s honor.

“It wasn’t long after the accident that I knew I wanted to do something that would make an everlasting impact on our community, or someone’s life, like Candice did,” Colton continued. “The first thing that came to mind was a scholarship. I wanted to offer a scholarship from our family to an RHS senior who exemplified the standard and kindness Candice had shown.”

Because of his efforts, there are two current scholarships offered to Richfield High School seniors in honor of Candice Thompson. Colton approached his family with his desire to begin a scholarship. Mountain America Credit Union and the Fox 13 Dream Team got wind of Colton’s plans and donated a scholarship to Snow College.

Candice Thompson was a nail technician and worked at Octavia’s Salon with her mother. The scholarship donated by Mountain America Credit Union and the Fox 13 Dream Team is a full year’s tuition to the Snow College cosmetology program.

“It was an amazing experience, and one I will cherish forever,” said Thompson. “The countless support and love from everyone in this community, and more so across this country, has been nothing short of amazing.”

Her family donated the second scholarship in Candice’s name. The introduction on the scholarship application reads, “to remember, and honor Candice, this scholarship has been created on her behalf to help someone pursue their dreams, and make this world a better, more beautiful, shining place like Can did.” The memorial scholarship provides $1,250 to a deserving high school student so they can pursue their dream.

Candice was always willing to offer a helping hand to anyone, friends, family, and strangers. Candice left an impact on everyone she came into contact with, and hers is a legacy that deserves recognition and respect.

Lasting long into the future, RHS students will be reminded of the standards and qualities Candice embodied. These newly implemented scholarships will continue to honor Candice, her family, and the principles for which she stood.

The community will become a brighter, more beautiful, shining place as each individual strives to become more like Candice. “Shine Like Can” is a mantra that can be applied to all situations and experiences as we look for the good in others.

“I wanted to do this, not only for her, but for me and our kids,” said Colton. “It made me feel like it was something that we could do to continue to recognize her, as she deserves, while allowing our kids to see her impact for years to come.”

If interested in applying, more information can be found on the Richfield High School website or questions can be sent to candicethompsonmemorial@gmail.com.