By JD MacBean

When Michael Bua and his group of old friends met to decide how to honor the memory of their friend, Billy Evans, a lot of ideas were thrown around but nothing felt like a match. When they made the decision to remember Bill in the most authentic way possible, they never dreamed of the positive response they received.

“We considered all kinds of ideas, from statues to naming a bridge after him, but nothing seemed to reflect Billy’s personality or character,” explained Bua.

The Billy in question is Officer William “Billy” Evans, a native of Clarksburg who served in the U.S. Capital police force until killed defending the Capital Building last April. Ultimately, Bua and Evans’ other friends decided any memorial to Billy had to reflect the officer’s personal commitment of giving back and serving the community.

“We started the Billy Evans Memorial Scholarship in order to help others, which is something Bill did every day of his life. He was committed to his family, his friends, and his community. Recognizing others who also live with such a dedication was the best way to remember him,” said Bua.

The Billy Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund (BEMSF) will provide scholarships for higher education to deserving graduating high school seniors in and around the Clarksburg area. BEMSF’s first major event, a memorial golf tournament, brought together over 200 golfers and raised over $20,000 towards the Fund’s endowment. Now the organization is launching the second-phase of its fundraising efforts.

“The Memorial Golf Tournament was amazing and the support we received tremendous. I appreciate everyone who took part. But, in order to fully endow the scholarship, and be able to help as many people in Bill’s name as possible, we have more work to do,” cautioned Bua.

To kickoff 2022, BEMSF announced a $42 for 42 campaign in recognition of Evans’ 42nd birthday, which would have occurred February 18th. The organization is asking for donations from individuals and businesses of $42.00. Donations are tax deductable.

Other events are planned to commemorate the anniversary of Evans’ death in April, and the 2022 Memorial Golf Tournament is scheduled for October 2nd. As Billy’s shocked friends came together just after his death last year, none, especially Michael Bua, could have anticipated the community’s response.

“Frankly, we were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support. It’s one thing to hear on the news that a police officer was killed in the line of duty, to see his casket lying in state under the Rotunda of the U.S. Capital, to have his sacrifice honored by political leaders – but Bill was one of us. He grew-up here, and never forgot his roots. It’s our job to make sure his community never forgets him.