For Immediate Release
Héctor González, Communications Strategy Manager, TreeFolks
Email: hector@treefolks.org | office: 512-575-2870 | cell: 512-903-4253
Austin, TX – April 2nd, 2025 –
TreeFolks joins the Austin community in mourning the loss of Tom Spencer, a visionary environmental leader, broadcaster, and longtime friend of the urban forest. Tom passed away peacefully this week, leaving behind a profound legacy of conservation, storytelling, and public service.
Tom’s relationship with TreeFolks was personal and deeply rooted. He briefly served as Executive Director in 2019, bringing his signature warmth and insight to the role. His time with the organization was sadly cut short due to a debilitating medical issue, but his impact and encouragement continued long after. Tom remained a cherished supporter and champion of our work to grow a greener Central Texas.
Tom was known throughout Central Texas as the host of Central Texas Gardener and Austin at Issue, where his thoughtful interviews and storytelling touched countless lives. He also served in key leadership roles at the National Wildlife Federation, Interfaith Action of Central Texas (iACT), I Live Here I Give Here, and TreeFolks, helping to shape a more compassionate and environmentally conscious Austin.
“Tom inspired us to ‘plant trees, plant hope,’ and that is how TreeFolks will continue to honor his legacy,” said Andrew W. Smiley, Executive Director of TreeFolks. “We are forever grateful to Tom for his vision and his passion, and invite others to get involved with TreeFolks as a celebration of his life and his accomplishments.”
As TreeFolks celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, we carry Tom’s spirit with us—his reverence for the natural world, his love for people, and his enduring hope for a more beautiful, connected community.
Tom’s family will announce a public memorial in the coming days. In his honor, TreeFolks invites the community to plant a tree, share a memory, or take a quiet walk beneath the canopy. In keeping with Tom’s generous spirit, he requested memorial donations be made to TreeFolks and Interfaith Action of Central Texas (iACT).
Tom Spencer’s roots run deep in Austin’s soil. May his legacy continue to grow.
