LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — The city of Lima marked Arbor Day with a tribute to a young life lost too soon, planting a sycamore tree in Faurot Park in memory of Lima Central Catholic softball player Ava Armstead.
The tree now stands just beyond right field on Diamond Two, a place where Armstead spent much of her time on the field. The 15-year-old died unexpectedly last May from a congenital heart condition.
Family members, friends, school representatives and city officials gathered for the ceremony, honoring Armstead’s life and legacy. The planting is part of the city’s annual Arbor Day observance, which rotates among local schools. This year, Lima Central Catholic chose the park location to reflect Armstead’s connection to the field.
Her father, Shaun Armstead, said the tree represents a lasting symbol of his daughter’s life and impact.
“It means she lives on every day throughout time. It's what she was, what she is and what she will forever be. She was about her faith, she was about her family, and she's about her sports and her friends. Her friends became family. There was not a bad thing that you would say about her, or she'd say about anybody else, and she made time for everybody,” he said.
Armstead’s family said they are grateful to the city and school community for honoring her memory in a place that held special meaning to her. Officials said the tree will serve as a living reminder of her spirit for years to come.
