The Bermuda Sloop Foundation has set up a scholarship fund in memory of award-winning teenage sailor Vershon Simmons who died in a road accident.His family is also accepting donations to defray the funeral costs; his burial was yesterday.Vershon, 18, died after he was involved in a crash with a car on Harbour Road, Paget.He had been hanging out with friends that evening before heading home in time for his curfew.Tributes have poured in for the teenager who has been described as an indispensable crewmember of the Spirit of Bermuda. Vershon had sailed more than 14,000 nautical miles on the tall ship, including the 2009 Atlantic crossing, and had recently been hired as the ship’s bosun.Students he has mentored have left moving tributes on a Facebook page RIP Vershon Simmons.Director of marine operations Simon Colley said: “Vershon was a fine young man; a patient, compassionate teacher, strong but gentle with an incredible sense of humour. Students loved him. We all loved him. We’re just so proud of him.”The Bermuda Sloop Foundation has created an annual Vershon Simmons Scholarship, which will be granted to young Bermudians for an overseas voyage on the ship. They have also dedicated the Most Improved Skill Award to Vershon, he won the award in 2009.The Foundation is also helping to raise money to defray the funeral costs for his family, 90-year-old grandmother Eleanor Dillas and sister Vernesha Symonds. Vershon’s parents, Vernon and Kamula Simmons are deceased. Bermuda Institute and Sandys Secondary Middle School have also held fundraisers.To donate to the scholarship fund members of the public can transfer money to HSBC Account 006 049639 001. In the note field the Foundation asks that people to put their last name and IMO VS. If people wish to donate to the funeral expense fund they can use the same bank account with FEF VS in the note field. Once the Foundation has covered the funeral expenses any additional money collected will be transferred to the scholarship fund.If the public has any questions about the funds they can call 737-5667.