Fund Established to Build Memorial for Social Media Guru Trey Pennington

Trey Pennington touched countless lives in Greenville, the state and around the world.

But one thing friends and family members knew best about the social media guru was his love of Greenville, and his favorite spot at Falls Park and the Liberty Bridge.

"Of all the places that Trey had visited, Greenville was home. He had lived there for the last 28 years and was a huge advocate of the city," said Erick Pennington, Trey's brother, in a phone interview on Wednesday.

"But his haven was Falls Park and the Liberty Bridge. It was his oasis, where he found serenity, and beauty, and a place to reflect and think. That was his place."

Erick said Trey's love of the park was so well-known by friends, acquaintances and relatives, it was the obvious choice for a tangible memorial to remember his life.

It was with that in mind that two of Trey's closest friends, Jay Handler and James Akers Jr., began wrestling with the idea of what type of memorial they could build to remember their friend and colleague in his beloved park, even just hours after he had taken his own life.

At a candlelight vigil at Falls Park on Sept. 7, Handler talked about how they had wanted to put a plaque on the Liberty Bridge.

He said Akers led the charge and began that day talking to city officials about what had to be done to make it a reality.

Erick said Akers was told by city officials the bridge was already sold. But he said Akers continued to ask what they could build in the park to honor his friend's life.

Erick said Akers asked about the swings within view of the bridge and the falls, but was told that all had been sold. He asked about building something in the park, but was told there were restrictions for modifying the park.

Erick said not willing to back down, Akers finally asked if a new spot could be created and finally, a "yes." But, a "yes" with a hefty price tag of $5,000.

But plans are now in place to erect a swing in view of the falls and of the bridge in Trey's memory.

"We wanted future visitors of the park to experience it through his eyes, from his perspective," Erick said.

Erick has set up an account, Trey Pennington Memorial at Falls Park on WePay, for donations to be made.

Erick said that anything over the $5,000 needed to build the swing will be placed into an education account for Trey's six children. Details on that campaign will be announced later.

Erick said that he and his family have felt so much support from Trey's friends during the last few weeks. He said the encouragement, support and love have been "indescribable."

He said many have just wanted to tell their story about how they met Trey or the impact he made in their life or business. While he said others, just wanted to reach out in comfort and support to the family.

"They don't know the impact it has on us," Erick said. "It has been our comfort. We love hearing Trey stories. For those who think we may be overwhelmed, please reach out to us. We would still love to hear your stories."