“Garvin’s love for the school dates all the way back to his adolescence, and continued all his life.” – Former Headmaster George Trautman
area—make it one of the most popular spots on campus. But there was to be more. The Brown family stepped forward yet again to provide another lead gift in support of the performing arts center, funding the facility’s superb 500-seat performance hall. Garvin touched many—and in particular his sons—when he announced that the new auditorium would be named for their mother, his first wife Susan Casey Brown. “I was deeply moved when he named the hall after Susan,” said his old friend George Trautman. “They had a wonderful relationship, and I think it was one of the nicest things he ever did.” With its dedication in the fall of 2007, Avon at last had an appropriate venue for musical performances of all kinds—as well as a gathering place large enough to accommodate the entire school for Morning Meetings.
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Fall 2010 The Avonian
Of Garvin Brown’s “bricks-and-mortar” legacy, current Board Chair Dean Graham ’84 said, “The things Garvin did for Avon were transformational in the school’s history. His generosity knew no limits. The major changes on campus that everyone enjoys today would not have happened without Garvin. You would never hear him say it—he was modest to a fault—but it’s all true. His impact will be felt for generations.” “From the time I became headmaster until today, Garvin had an enormous impact on the school,” added George Trautman, “and yet he did it with such a gentle spirit and such a marvelous sense of humor.” “Garvin’s outstanding contributions to the school will always be remembered, and he will be greatly missed,” echoed Rolf Olson. Added Ken LaRocque, “I will personally miss his friendship, his wise counsel, and his positive spirit.” Memorial services celebrating his life were held this fall in Louisville and at Avon Old Farms. In addition to his two sons, Garvin is survived by his daughters-in-law, Sarah and Steffanie; sisters Laura Lee Brown and Dace Polk Brown Stubbs; and grandchildren Madison, Chandler, Ryan, and Isabel.