Covington residents Ralph and Gerri Murphy were surprised recently when the Sunday school class they teach created a scholarship in their honor.

"Murphy's Gang," a couple's class at the First Baptist Church in Covington, will award one deserving graduating senior this year with an undisclosed amount of money to help the student in college.

The idea of providing a scholarship to an area student in the Murphy's honor came to the class after discussing what the couple has taught them about the most.

"We learned from Mr. and Mrs. Murphy to take care of each other...and to care for needy people in the community," said Carol Walters, member of "Murphy's Gang," in an e-mail. "It is for this reason that the class established the Ralph and Gerri Murphy Scholarship."

Gerri said she and Ralph were both humbled and surprised by the scholarship.

"We couldn't imagine this would happen to us," she said. "It's overwhelming, but nice that we can give back."

"Murphy's Gang" has funded the 2012 scholarship, but anyone who desires can contribute by sending a check to the First Baptist Church, 1139 Usher Street, SW, Covington, GA 30014. Please designate the contribution to the Ralph and Gerri Murphy Scholarship.

For more information contact (770) 786-9031.