Williamson honored with Memorial Tree
Mr. Ben Williamson’s family and friends gathered on Saturday, October 17, to plant a tree in his honor at Williamson Park.
A large crowd attended the annual Williamson Park Bog/Barbeque on Saturday, October 17.
By Stephan Drew, Editor
On the evening of Saturday, October 17, devoted tree lovers, family members and supporters of Williamson Park gathered beneath the open sky to plant a memorial tree in honor of Mr. Ben Williamson, beloved community member and arborist for whom the park is named.
Williamson, who passed away recently, spent his life championing the trees that shade and strengthen communities. The newly planted tree now stands as a living reminder of the man whose name the park proudly carries.
As the community gathered around the planting site, Liz Gilland of TreesSC read a dedication on behalf of the organization.
“In Loving Memory of Ben Williamson,” she began. “TreesSC dedicates this tree in loving memory of Ben Williamson, a devoted champion of urban forestry, a treasured friend and an inspiration to all who shared his love for trees and thriving communities.”
The dedication continued: “Ben’s dedication, generosity and deep love for the natural world touched many lives. His work helped create a greater future and his influence will live on in the trees he championed and in the people he inspired.”
Gilland closed with words meant to speak to the family and friends gathered: “May this tree stand as a living tribute to Ben, to the difference he made, the beauty he helped nurture and the enduring legacy he leaves with his family, friends and community. With heartfelt gratitude and remembrance, TreesSC.”
Following the ceremony, the mood shifted from remembrance to celebration as Williamson Park hosted its annual Chicken Bog and Barbecue fundraiser. The event sold out completely, a testament to the community’s enduring support for the park and the legacy of its namesake.
Attendees enjoyed live music, delicious food and warm, friendly fellowship, the kind of gathering that Williamson, a man who cared deeply about bringing people together around the natural world, would likely have cherished.
As the evening wound down, the new tree stood quietly at the edge of the festivities, a young sapling that will grow alongside the community it honors. For generations of park visitors to come, its branches will offer shade, beauty and a lasting reminder of Ben Williamson’s devotion to the trees and the people he loved.