Justin Cooley Memorial Scholarship awarded

On Thursday, May 14 friends and family of the Cooley Family had the honor to celebrate the legacy of Justin Cooley, and to recognize two outstanding Liberty High School seniors who embody the spirit of service, leadership, and community that he lived by every day.

 

Cooley was a proud graduate of Mountain View–Liberty High School, Class of 1989. He wasn’t just present in his community, he was invested in it. Whether it was serving on the Liberty Eagles Football Chain Gang, supporting the Liberty High School Booster Club, or giving back through Rotary and local chambers of commerce, Cooley believed in showing up. He believed in lifting others up.

 

On behalf of the Cooley family and a host of many great friends, the $1,000 Justin Cooley Memorial Scholarship was awarded to two Liberty High School seniors who reflect Cooley’s character; young men and women who lead with integrity, give back generously, and are ready to take on the world with the same determination that Cooley carried with him throughout his entire life and his fight with cancer. The committee selection was completed through an anonymous evaluation process.

 

A special congratulations to the 2026 Justin Cooley Memorial Scholarship recipients Kelbie Smith and Mahayla Collins.

 

"We are so proud of you both," stated Justin Cooley's late wife Dr. Ashley Tyree Cooley. "Carry Justin’s legacy forward, not just in what you achieve, but in how you serve, how you care, and how you make others feel."