Sherry Lyons-Williams Scholarship Sherry Lyons-Williams was the first female Atlanta police officer to die in the line of duty. She wore her badge with honor, pride and dignity, protecting and serving the citizens of Atlanta for thirteen years. She was killed on April 4, 2001, in a shootout while serving a warrant on a drug dealer. Orphaned at the age of 2, Sherry was raised by her grandparents. Sherry was a standout high school athlete and overcame many obstacles to earn her Bachelor of Arts Degree at the University of Georgia in 1984. Sherry was an avid Bulldog who rarely missed a game. She served in the active-duty military in the US Army and later in the Reserves. After her death, her friends and family established this scholarship in her name through the Criminal Justice Studies Program and the University of Georgia Foundation. This need-based scholarship is designated for a major who plans to pursue a career in criminal justice. Applications are due during the spring term for an award to be given the following year.
