Annual Report - 2001
Legacy Story - Royce Everett

Royce Everett had a passion for Special Olympics and she personified the courage of Special Olympics athletes.

The international program is dedicated to empowering individuals with mental retardation to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through sports training and competition.

At the age of 50, Royce began competing regularly in the Special Olympics athletic games.

“Royce was a good athlete and a leader among her fellow athletes, and they all loved her for her caring, kindness and support,” said Brandy Watts, a sponsor of Team Odessa, who coached Royce in track and softball.

Royce Everett won countless medals for her achievements and the acclaim of all who knew her because she had such a zest for life.

In spring 2001, the area track meet held in Odessa was dedicated to Royce, who died after 26 competitive years.

“Royce was a very special lady and we were stunned when she suddenly died,” remembered Jay Hendricks, KWES-TV news broadcaster and Special Olympics fan who befriended Royce in the 1980’s. “She routinely won medals at the track meets, and she would always find me to give me a hug and share in her success.”

In Royce’s honor, her family and friends established the Royce Everett Memorial Fund for Special Olympics, which supports the senior Special Olympics game activities in the Permian Basin region.