The legacy of a wellknown Ray County native, veteran and state representative lives on in a fund to provide free transportation for some veterans. Made possible by the Vernon King Memorial Foundation, established in 2017, free transportation is provided by Ray County Transportation Inc., known as Direct Transit. Named for prominent and beloved resident Ray County resident Vernon King, the foundation was established in June and provides free transportation for veterans in the county who are disabled or at least 60 years of age. Eligible veterans may receive no reimbursement for transportation costs. The foundation will cover transportation costs solely for veterans needing a ride to and from Veterans Health Administration facilities. The foundation partnered with Direct Transit, headquartered in Richmond. Brad Marriott, a driver for Direct Transit and a nephew of King, serves as chairman of the foundation board. Marriott collaborated with the King family and other interested…