The Phillip H. and Cynthia Hunt Grimes Memorial Scholarship was established in 2025 by Phil and Cynthia Grimes in gratitude for the education they received at Panola College.

Phillip H. "Phil" Grimes was born on November 11, 1952, the youngest son of Billy H. and Ruby Wroten Grimes. Cynthia Hunt Grimes was born on December 6, 1954, to J.B. and Maurice Beard Hunt. Both Phil and Cynthia were born and raised in Panola County and graduated from Carthage High School in 1971 and 1973, respectively.

Phil and Cynthia were married on February 24, 1978. They have one daughter, Catherine, who is married to Ben Wilson, and two grandchildren, Ruby and Harris. Catherine earned dual credit through Panola College while attending Carthage High School.

Phil earned his Associate of Arts degree from Panola College in 1973 before continuing his education at Texas A&M University, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1975. Cynthia earned her associate degree from Panola College in 1975 and served as a Panola College cheerleader during her time as a student. She continued her education at Stephen F. Austin State University, graduating in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing.

Following his graduation from Texas A&M University, Phil worked for the Texas Agricultural Extension Service for approximately two years before joining Texas Utilities Mining Company, now known as Luminant, as an Environmental Specialist. He dedicated 38.5 years to the company before retiring in July 2016.

Phil is a lifetime member of First Methodist Church of Carthage and has been a longtime member of the Loyal Sons Sunday School Class, where he has served as treasurer.

Cynthia is a lifetime member of Central Baptist Church in Carthage.

Phil has also been a member of Carthage Masonic Lodge No. 521 AF&AM for more than 45 years and has served as its treasurer for many years. He is a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason and a member of the Waco Scottish Rite Bodies, Sharon Shrine Temple in Tyler, and the Panola County Shrine Club.

Phil and Cynthia believe Panola College is an important part of the Panola County community. Through the Phillip H. and Cynthia Hunt Grimes Memorial Scholarship, they are honored to give back a portion of the many blessings they have received and to help future generations of Panola College students pursue their educational goals.