Throughout their 55 years of marriage, Denzil and Lola Truitt served God in a variety of ways, yet one of their most important goals was to provide a Christian education for their children. All three of their children graduated from Southwestern Adventist University, but their support of Christian education went beyond their immediate family. When the Committee of 100 was established for Southwestern Adventist University, they were pleased to become members. Lola passed away in 1996, and Denzil was laid to rest in 2012. Since Southwestern Adventist University was dear to the family, it seemed only natural to establish a scholarship in memory of parents who sacrificed to support "training for eternity," as they called Christian education.

Denzil’s lifetime goal of becoming a physician was realized after detours, which included serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, and then teaching in the Industrial Arts Department at Pacific Union College, where he was instrumental in establishing the auto mechanics and welding programs. Denzil persisted in his goal and enrolled at the Kansas City College of Osteopathy and Surgery. As always, Lola was supportive—and even surprised him with a party for his 40th birthday, teasing him about being the “old man” in his class.

The first few years after graduation, Denzil interned and then practiced in Fort Worth, Texas, while Lola worked at the Texas Conference Office. When an opportunity arose to purchase a medical office in Petersburg, close to Lubbock, Texas, they headed west. Lola continued to be supportive and was pleased to assist in his office as needed.

After 17 years in Petersburg, the green hills of Kerrville, Texas, beckoned, and Denzil and Lola relocated there to semi-retire. During the Kerrville years, Lola managed Denzil's office and greeted patients with warm concern for their spiritual and physical wellbeing. In 1996, she collapsed at work and passed away without regaining consciousness. Denzil closed the office and fully retired a year or so later at the age of 83. He had fulfilled his dream and served more than 40 years as a physician.

Scholarship award requirements

The scholarship in memory of Denzil and Lola Truitt was established primarily to assist young people from Kerrville, Texas, along the path to service and success. However, if there is not a qualifying student from Kerrville, the scholarship is available to other qualifying students attending Southwestern Adventist University.

Student Recipients

2020-2021 - Jacob Kendrick 

2019-2020 - Jacob Kendrick