08/22/2026
Thank you to the Henry County Friends of Conservation for donating a Red Sunset Maple tree in memory of Gavin Browning. The tree was provided by Jake Kruse and K&E Landscapes, and we thank all of them for making this lasting tribute possible.
Gavin was just 16 years old when his life ended far too soon in September of 2024. Nothing can replace a young life, and no words can take away the grief experienced by Gavin’s family, friends, classmates, and this entire community.
But there is something especially meaningful about planting a tree in someone’s memory. A tree begins with roots. Those roots reach into the ground, becoming stronger and spreading farther than we can see.
In many ways, a person’s influence is the same. The lives Gavin touched, the memories he created, and the love people continue to carry for him are roots that remain firmly planted in New London.
The timing of this gift also carries special meaning. Just last week, a powerful storm caused extensive damage across New London and destroyed many of the trees here in City Park.
In the aftermath, this community did what New London always does: neighbors helped neighbors, crews went to work, and people came together.
*as a note this is not a picture of the actual tree, just an idea of what it could look like some day*
