Celebrating Local Legends: The Paschal Hall of Honor
On October 20, 2025, the R.L. Paschal High School community gathered in excitement to welcome a new wave of inductees into the Panther Hall of Honor. This year marks a significant moment as it celebrates the achievements of over a dozen alumni for the first time in nearly two decades. Among these remarkable individuals is the beloved actress Ginger Rogers, renowned filmmaker Taylor Sheridan, and Thomas Pryor Thompson, a former NFL quarterback who made his mark in sports history. Each honoree has left an indelible mark on Fort Worth and beyond.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Panther Hall of Honor, established in 1976, recognizes graduates who have made significant contributions in a variety of fields including arts, sports, politics, and science. Rogers, who attended Paschal in the 1920s, shone brightly during Hollywood's Golden Age, winning an Academy Award and captivating audiences with her performances. Sheridan, a 1987 graduate, has elevated the film industry with his acclaimed works such as "Yellowstone," while other inductees include environmental leaders and athletes, each embodying the spirit of their alma mater.
Inspiration for Future Generations
Patti Sikes, the chair of the 2025 Panther Hall of Honor Committee, emphasized that the ceremony is not just a celebration of past achievements, but a beacon of inspiration for current students. "We have honorees who aren’t always on national merits, but they make their way in life later on," she noted. Seeing these honored alumni helps ignite the dreams of today's students, encouraging them that success is attainable.
Community and Connection
The ceremony was a heartfelt gathering, attended by families, faculty, and current students, all eager to witness the recognition of their predecessors. Important figures like Gus Tom Bates III were particularly remembered at this moment. Bates, a co-founder of the Gus Bates Center and a long-time coach at Paschal, passed away in 2024, but his legacy is celebrated through the recognition of his contributions to youth development in sports.
Remembering the Honorees
This year’s inductees include notable figures such as:
- Gus Tom Bates III - Founding member of the Gus Bates Center, class of 1961.
- Tony Burgess - Former head of TCU’s Biodiversity Institute, class of 1966.
- James Dyer - A decision theorist recognized for pivotal contributions to investment science, class of 1965.
Significance of the Hall of Honor
Fort Worth has a rich history of producing talent that thrives in various sectors, and the Paschal Hall of Honor is a testament to that success. As the school looks to the future, it promises to honor more alumni, rekindling the tradition of celebrating the impact of its graduates every year. Whether through furthering their education, influencing industry changes, or uplifting community spirits, the inductees create a fabric of inspiration for future generations.
Get Involved in Fort Worth’s Story
As the Fort Worth community continues to swell with stories of resilience and triumph, we encourage you to be engaged and support community initiatives. Consider donating to local causes that help continue educating future generations and nurturing talent. Every contribution matters!
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