MANOR MAGAZINE Spring 2024 issue vol45 no2

Mark

R. Todd President & CEO

Magnolia Manor, Inc.

OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2024

Active Trustees

Mr. Pete Cates

Mr. Ed Collier

Mrs. Ann Harris

Mr. Mark Johnson

Mr. Will Peterson, IV

Mr. Charles Pryor

Mr. Chuck Reeves

Mr. Charles Ray Sheffield

Mr. Ty Turner

Mrs. Edie Vinson

Mr. Hal Weathers

Mr. Rick Whaley

Mrs. Jean Wheeler

Mr. George Youmans, Jr.

Executive Committee

Chairman–Mr. Mark Johnson

Vice Chairman–Mr. Chuck Reeves

Secretary–Mrs. Jean Wheeler

Robert Weems, Editor

Director of Communications

rweems@magnoliamanor.com 229-349-6558

Christian Tyson, Editor

Director of Publications & Social Media ctyson@magnoliamanor.com 2001 South Lee Street Americus, GA 31709 229-352-8620

Mother’s Day is always special at Magnolia Manor.

The very first person who nurtured us was our mother because a mother’s care begins before we are ever born. For many of us, our mother’s care and nurturing continued well past our birth and throughout adulthood. Most continue this support for a lifetime. Many of us also have had the good fortune to watch our own children be loved and nurtured by their mothers and adored by their grandmothers.

Celebrations of mothers and motherhood can be traced back to the ancient civilizations that used to host large festivals in their honor. In the United States, we set aside the second Sunday in May to recognize, celebrate, and honor the women who have nurtured children along the path of life.

The statistics for this day prove how important mothers are to our society:

1. More calls are made on Mother’s Day than on any other day of the year.

2. More greeting cards are purchased for Mother’s Day than any other time of the year.

3. Mother’s Day is the single busiest day of the year for restaurants.

4. Mother’s Day is one of the highest-selling dates for flowers. Approximately one-fourth of all flowers sold in any given year are sold in the days leading up to Mother’s Day.

Each year on Mother’s Day, Magnolia Manor is recognized in the Methodist churches across South Georgia in an annual giving campaign. Our Mother’s Day campaign is designed to help Magnolia Manor continue with nurturing and care started in motherhood as we care for our residents through our benevolent fund, the League of the Good Samaritan. This support is invaluable in providing care for those who need it most.

Every year, we are able to continue to care for residents whose financial funds become exhausted; many of whom are mothers, because of your generosity and support to The League of the Good Samaritan. Without the League, countless residents would face an uncertain future as some would lack the ability to afford care during their senior years. Our supporters choose to help us provide nurturing care for our residents in their most vulnerable years.

We are thankful for all of Magnolia Manor’s supporters. But especially as Mother’s Day approaches, I ask you to remember the many mothers who Magnolia Manor provides care for and I encourage you to be an advocate in your local congregation and community for the many mothers who call Magnolia Manor home. Your support is needed now more than ever.

Mark R. Todd President & CEO

Life is an adventure that seldom goes the way we think it should. This journey has many ups and downs, celebrations, and adversities. That is why it is so important not to walk this road alone. All of us need cheerleaders who keep inspiring us and believing in us even when we don’t. I think the best cheerleaders that I have seen in life are moms because they understand commitment, sacrifice, and agape love.

Luke 12:48 certainly describes the selflessness of mothers. It says:

From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, even more will be expected.

Not only are moms cheerleaders, but they are also dream weavers. They provide fertile ground in which their children can explore, wonder, and dare to go. Mothers weave the threads of success and failure, accountability and discipline, and grace and truth, so their children can attain what is often thought of as unattainable. In addition to teaching us God’s word, bandaging knees, preparing meals, laughing, and crying with us, moms encourage each child in their own special ways. Not only has my mother always encouraged me to dream big, but she has also emboldened me to be the best that I could be. She even thinks that I still could become the President of the United States…what a fan and cheerleader that I have always had inspiring me! The experience of people believing in you is the greatest inspiration one can receive. It is a game-changer and very likely a life-changer!

A mother’s love, encouragement, and influence often make an impact that will affect many generations. So this Mother’s Day, honor your mother or her memory or maybe even share some “motherly” love and encouragement. You can be that cheerleader to someone. You never know when your influence will encourage someone to keep the faith, to never give up, and to pursue their dreams. Be a person who inspires others and you never know…you may make a difference in someone’s life and hopefully eternity.

SVP for Communications

Magnolia Manor of Columbus Resident, Sarah Frey

To serve all through love and support for a lifetime

MISSION VISION

Our communities are about life and living

Mothers know all too well what it means to give. In the child’s early stages, the mother sacrifices time and sleep to ensure that the child receives proper care. As that child develops and grows, the mother is there giving encouraging words, stern correction, a listening ear, a reassuring presence, and so much more! Mothers are so crucial to a child’s well-being, which is why we designate a special day to celebrate them each year. We honor all the mothers and mother figures at Magnolia Manor and beyond for their commitment and selflessness! Women like Sarah Frey, a resident at our Columbus Assisted Living community, remind us what Mother’s Day is all about. Through motherhood, she has given her children a legacy of love and faith that continues to thrive through generations.

Sarah’s story begins in a small, rural town in east Barbour

County, Alabama. As the youngest of 12 children, she earned the endearing nickname, “Lil’ One.” Growing up, Sarah spent a lot of time playing with her older brother who was the closest to her in age.

“I was sort of spoiled since I was the youngest. When my brother wouldn’t play with me, I would tell our mother. She would say, ‘Wayne play with your sister!’” Sarah reminisced.

While in high school, Sarah began exploring career options and civil service piqued her interest. A few months after graduating, she applied for a job at Fort Benning in Columbus, Georgia. She secured an administrative position and moved to Columbus to begin a long, fulfilling career. A new job in a new city brings opportunities to meet new people. One of the people Sarah met happened to be Keith Frey. Mutual friends set them up on a blind date. After dating for a while, they got married and

welcomed their daughter into the world. Their son followed shortly after.

“One of my sisters once said, ‘You don’t know what real love is until you’ve held your child for the first time.’ Being a mother is a reward! I just hope I’ve passed along some of my values and lessons to my children,” Sarah stated.

According to her daughter, Sarah has fulfilled her pursuit.

“My mother was very loving and giving. Her focus was always on the family. My parents didn’t do anything without my brother and me. They were always there for us. They were very loving and nurturing,” Steph Hargrove, Sarah’s daughter, shared.

Sarah credits her parenting style to her mother’s example of motherhood. She raised Sarah and her siblings in the Christian faith. Sarah recalls that in those times it wasn’t common to hear someone express their love verbally. Though unspoken, Sarah knew her mother’s love by the way she cared for their family. Sarah carried on her mother’s heritage of love and faith, which continues to thrive in her children and grandchildren today.

“All my family share in religious activities. They have a desire to serve the Lord, which is so precious to me. It’s so pleasing to see your children doing well for themselves and helping others. My advice to young mothers is to love your children as long as you can

Magnolia Manor of Columbus Resident, Sarah Frey

because they grow up too quickly,” stated Sarah.

After 32 years in civil service, Sarah retired as a GS9. Her husband retired as well, and the two moved to the countryside of Alabama in Sarah’s hometown. As time went on, Keith’s health began to decline. Their daughter began making regular visits to assist them with housekeeping and other activities of daily living.

“When we were living in Alabama, Steph would come out to see us every two weeks. Now, that’s real love! It makes me feel really good to see them caring for others as well as me. But I knew that the long commute from Columbus and the duties of a caregiver would eventually become too much for her,” Sarah stated.

The family began looking for alternative living options for Sarah and Keith. They collectively decided it would be best for them to move back to Columbus to be closer to the rest of the family. They needed a place that provided around-the-clock care in a cozy environment. Their search led them to the assisted living community at Magnolia Manor in Columbus.

Magnolia Manor offers opportunities for potential residents to move in on a trial run before committing fully. Mr. Frey moved in first to get a feel for what senior living would be like. They liked what they saw, so Sarah joined him a few weeks later in December 2018. Unfortunately, Mr. Frey passed away shortly after in May 2019. They were a few months shy of their 60th wedding anniversary. Suffering the loss of a loved one is never easy. But thanks to her faith and family, Sarah has been managing well.

She also gets involved in the activities at Magnolia Manor. Some of her favorite things to do include attending worship services and participating in social gatherings during the holidays.

“The administrator is great! She has the best sense of choosing people that fit. We have outstanding caregivers. We’re able to have chapel here, and I can attend Sunday service and Wednesday night Bible study. All around, I don’t think you can find a better place to live than here!” Sarah shared.

In addition to the faith-based aspect of Magnolia Manor, Sarah appreciates the nonprofit element of the organization. Through a benevolent fund known as the League of the Good Samaritan, Magnolia Manor offers financial assistance to residents who can no longer afford their care. The League helps us fulfill our promise that no resident will have to leave Magnolia Manor if they run out of money.

“I’m all for the League of the Good Samaritan. There are good people here who aren’t able to afford their care. If there’s any way I can contribute to helping them, I’m glad to be a part of it. I think it’s a blessing for me and them,” Sarah said.

You can also play a part in blessing a resident in need. Please consider donating to the League of the Good Samaritan. You can help by submitting the enclosed envelope with your gift or visiting www.magnoliamanor.com/waystogive. We appreciate your generosity and wish you a Happy Mother’s Day!

Manor’s

Magnolia Manor of Macon Chaplain, Rev. Nancylee Cater

VALUES

Commitment to Our Faith Tradition

On

the Journey to Chaplaincy by Reverend Nancylee Cater:

Fifty years, four months, nine and a half days - and now he was gone. My heart was shattered, and I groaned in grief and tears. We had made it to fifty yearsour golden anniversary. Jere and I got married on August 31, 1968. Our wedding vows included “in sickness and in health, til death do us part,” which we had lived out.

Over my lifetime, faith has been as natural for me as breathing. Jere and I shared a strong faith, having both been raised in families with strong faith. We met in church while we were in college. We raised our two sons in church, too. Abiding with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit was just how we lived our lives.

So, it is little wonder that we saw God at work in many ways, often interrupting what we believed to be our plans. Possibly the greatest surprise of all was when I realized God was calling me to go to seminary. Jere and I both wondered what in the world God was up to with this. Neither of us imagined that I was facing ordination as a United Methodist pastor, and yet, that is precisely where I am today.

Experiences in my own life served as stepping stones to get me to the door of seminary. At the very foundation were my

childhood encounters with God. These were so real for me that I still can sense some of them today. Academic success for me in the first 12 grades was modest - no awards. I did not learn good study habits. Studying at Agnes Scott revealed that truth. I struggled to survive academically. Because of the trauma of those four years, I was certain I would never set foot in school again. And, I believe God chuckled in love, “We shall see, Nancylee. We shall see.”

Over the next few years, Jere and I adopted our two precious sons, and I held several different jobs. At the same time, I signed up with a class in our church to be trained to teach the Bible in a structured setting. Through this training, my passion for studying and teaching the Bible took root and began to grow. I began to want to do something that I could not believe I wanted to do: go back to school! Every time I think about it, I am more amazed at how God works. Psalm 37:4 says, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” The true meaning of these words began to dawn on me. It’s not about getting what I want. It’s about God giving me His own desires – His desires for me in my heart. God was planting within me

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the desire to go back to school to prepare me for ordained ministry.

I continued to resist God’s call for many years, but that did not deter God from continuing His call. I touched my toes into academics by auditing three classes at Mercer University. Then I took a job as executive director of a non-profit, United Methodist-supported ministry to the homeless. My education continued in a very different way. Working in this job for over seven years taught me much more about people, leadership, and listening to others. It also taught me about myself. I could see that being present with others was another way for me to grow.

God led me, step by step, toward ordained ministry. As I wrestled with the application to seminary, three years of study, and the strenuous ordination process, Jere was by my side at every moment. He held down the home and chores, caring for the boys during the days I was away, all while doing his work

as a professional engineer and Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserves. His love, support, and encouragement were the fuel that kept me going when I didn’t see a way. At the heart of Jere’s faith was his commitment to being there. He understood the precious gift of presence, and he impressed this vital truth on me. It was, and is, a treasured contribution to my theological training and my faith.

As a United Methodist pastor, I served churches where the Bishop sent me. It was during my last appointment that the doctors diagnosed Jere with cancer. After 12 years of ordained ministry, I knew it was time to retire. Jere had been working on a project in Great Falls, Montana, for a little over a year. He returned to Georgia following my retirement and we began the rounds of visiting doctors in the local area. We finally turned to the Mayo Clinic. After a courageous battle with this dreadful disease, Jere finally was at peace. On the second week of January 2019, He rested in the arms of our Savior, and I was left behind.

Magnolia Manor of Macon Chaplain, Rev. Nancylee Cater, During Bible Study

Plans were made, the service was held, and weeks went by. The world continued to revolve. Now in retirement, I had no real obligations to anyone but family. I made a few visits to my family. There was so much to do to keep up the house. I also enjoyed helping teach our Sunday School class again. Still…something was missing.

One Sunday in late May, I heard someone call my name as I was leaving the sanctuary. I turned to see a pastor friend, Rev. John Walker. He proceeded to say, “We need a part-time chaplain on the Macon campus at Magnolia Manor. Would you be interested?” I had given no thought at all about serving as a pastor in retirement. I had not remotely considered looking for a job. My time was my own for the first time in more than 50 years. My own…to do what?

As the conversation unfolded there in the sanctuary, God was at work yet again. There was a stirring in my heart that had become familiar over the years. I had never served as a chaplain before, but I found myself answering, “Yes, I would like to try that, at least for a while.”

Chaplaincy is very different from leading a church. I was not at all sure whether I would be a good fit for the position. Slowly, though, I began to realize this was what was missing in my life. Pastors are ordained for a lifetime of service. God’s call is never rescinded. With my retirement, Jere’s death, and my family’s busy lives, I no longer had that place where my “being there” was needed. This was a new opportunity for me to be there for others.

It has now been over four years since I accepted the invitation to work at Magnolia Manor. We survived the crushing blow of the COVID-19 pandemic that began barely seven months after my first day here. We have experienced God’s grace in more ways than I can count through staffing changes, residents’ deaths, special events, and worship. But the one thing that has become most apparent as these years have passed is the vivid truth of Jere’s commitment to being there. Together, the residents, staff, and I are learning more and more about God’s faithfulness through being there for each other. His faithfulness is present and we are present with each other.

Magnolia Manor of Macon Chaplain, Rev. Nancylee Cater, Honoring the National Day of Prayer with Residents

Magnolia Manor of Americus Resident, John Dede

VALUES

Dignity, Respect, Care, and Compassion for All

Magnolia Manor is privileged to have wonderful people who live and work here. Although they may never receive a gold medal or have their names recorded in historical texts, many of them have achieved great exploits that deserve recognition in our book. John Dede, a resident at the Mattie H. Marshall Memory Care Center in Americus, is certainly one of those people. John has dedicated his lifework to serving others with dignity, respect, care, and compassion for all, which is one of our core values here at Magnolia Manor.

John grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, just across the street from Concordia College. His father was a professor at the college, where he taught a variety of languages. To escape the hustle and bustle of city living, John’s father would take him to vacation at one of the many lakes in the northern part of the state. John’s four siblings were much older than him and had moved away from their family home. So, to ensure that John wouldn’t be lonely, his father would invite a coworker and his son to join them.

“My dad and older brothers built a cabin on a lake in North Wisconsin. It was a beautiful location surrounded by lakes and big trees. We spent our

summers there for several years,” John reminisced.

Having a linguist for a father influenced John’s appreciation for education and provided him with a well-cultured experience. As he grew older, John quickly learned that his worldview was not the societal norm –especially in the segregated southern region of the United States.

“When I looked at the world, I didn’t like what I saw. I felt that segregation was wrong and that we shouldn’t deprive African Americans of receiving an education. So, I went to college and became a pastor to make a change in the world,” John explained.

Fortunately, John found that the pastors and scholars of the Lutheran Church shared the same beliefs. Many of the leaders had made it their mission to eliminate segregation and provide support to those suffering from the adversities of racism. Once he completed his vicarage, John got married and moved to Selma, Alabama. One of the first things he did was offer education at the collegiate level to poor African Americans in the rural areas of Alabama. He spent a year there before taking on a missionary assignment in

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Africa. John spent the following three years teaching people in the villages of Nigeria.

In 1961, John returned to the United States for his furlough. He soon received a call to serve at a church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. John partnered with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and continued his fight against racism despite the palpable resistance. In one of his endeavors, John gathered a group of African American children from the church to integrate the public beaches. John also made an audacious statement when he refused to allow his children to attend the private Lutheran School due to their persistence in remaining segregated. John’s efforts gained people’s attention and compelled them to rectify discriminatory laws and belief systems.

“Several people in the South were very prejudiced and wanted to have complete segregation. I insisted that we were going to open our educational programs to different races in the Lutheran Church. I traveled to different churches to provide education to people who were otherwise downtrodden. It was my goal to break up the rigid segregation that had been the case since before my time. Although we’ve made significant accomplishments, we still have room for improvement,” John stated.

Among his involvement with the fight for civil rights in Fort Lauderdale, John played a large role in transforming racial views in Miami. He moved his family to the area in 1968 and started a daycare and kindergarten program. The program eventually developed into a highly

Magnolia Manor of Americus Resident, John Dede

integrated school for the Lutheran Church. He also established a Spanish ministry for Cuban refugees in Miami. John was one of the leading forces for change since the state of Florida didn’t begin integrating public schools until 1970.

“I impressed upon the public that segregation is contrary to Christian teaching, so we couldn’t carry on that way. I felt that it was the right and godly thing for us to do. This isn’t heaven. We’re going to face issues, but we are called to be our best,” shared John.

John spent the last eight years of his ministry in Central Florida. He retired in 1998 after 48 years of serving in the Lutheran Church. He moved to Georgia to be closer to his family after his wife passed away. When the time came for him to move to a senior living community, he and his children explored a few options before settling on Magnolia Manor.

“One of the things that stood out to us about the Mattie H. Marshall Memory Care Center was the ethnic diversity. I was very impressed to see people from different backgrounds living here. We also noticed how the building is designed to support memory care residents. I especially like the memory boxes. It’s perfect for Dad to store family photos, artifacts from his time in Nigeria, and other sentimental items,” shared his daughter, Elizabeth Dede.

Since moving to Magnolia Manor in February 2024, John has become well-acquainted with his new surroundings. He attends weekly worship services led by the on-site chaplain. He also participates in scheduled activities and events. If you’d like to explore the possibilities of life at Magnolia Manor, visit www.magnoliamanor.com or follow us on social media.

Magnolia Manor of Americus Resident, John Dede

Magnolia Manor of Americus Nursing Center Activities Assistant, Elaine Skipper

VALUES

Healthy Mind, Body, and Spirit

As we grow older, we must continue to learn. Whether it’s a new language or recipe, we should be challenging ourselves to grow. Many of the residents and staff at Magnolia Manor embrace unfamiliar territories to accomplish long-desired goals. Their courage inspires others each day. Elaine Skipper, an activities assistant at the Americus Nursing Center, is transforming lives one music note at a time.

Elaine grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, as the third of eight children. She and her family members were all gifted musicians with the ability to sing and play a wide range of instruments. Their parents encouraged them to be involved in church and focus on getting an education.

After graduating from high school, Elaine attended William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in business with concentrations in communications, public relations, and business administration. Throughout college, Elaine continued being involved in music. She participated in theater musicals and plays as a performer and accompanist. She

traveled as an accompanist for the Confronters, a contemporary Christian ministry group at William Jewell College.

Elaine began seeking employment opportunities in her field of study shortly after graduating from college. She landed a job as a training director at Memorial Hospital in Decatur, Illinois. From there, she moved to Americus, Georgia, to become the Public Relations Director at Sumter Regional Hospital. Elaine enjoyed her career, but she came to a lifechanging discovery that led her in an unexpected direction.

“After nearly two years, I felt God’s call to become the full-time pianist at Central Baptist Church. That meant stepping away in faith from what I thought I was here to do,” Elaine stated.

With the support of her husband, Wray, and the music director at the church, Elaine transitioned from her job to become the full-time pianist at Central Baptist Church where she has served for the past 30 years. In this role, Elaine shares her musical gifts with congregants every Sunday. She also participates in the musical group known as the Central Baptist Silvertones. The Silvertones is a

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choir composed of individuals aged 55 years and older who share their faith and music with residents at long-term nursing centers in the community. This volunteering opportunity helped inspire Elaine’s decision to join the team at Magnolia Manor.

“I started working at Magnolia Manor over two years ago. Being a part of the activities department here has given me a chance to make a difference. I can be the heart and face of Jesus and truly see each of the residents as people who have stories, interests, and needs that matter,” Elaine shared.

As an activities assistant at the Americus Nursing Center, Elaine’s role entails helping with weekly bingo games, organizing special programs, and several other responsibilities. In addition to all her duties, she has graciously added private piano lessons to the list of resident activities. The idea to offer piano lessons came about when one of the residents asked Elaine to teach her how to play ‘I’ll Fly Away.’ Elaine brought this idea to Maggie

Rushing, the Activity Director. They have now reached the year-and-a-half mark and they’re still going strong!

“My husband and I offer piano lessons on Saturday afternoons. Maggie has been so supportive. She has allowed me to teach during some activity times. We started with very basic note reading using dry-erase boards and memorization tactics. They’re now practicing songs,” stated Elaine.

All their hard work is paying off. Our piano students have graduated from playing a few simple notes to participating in piano recitals. The residents had the honor of playing alongside some of Elaine’s private students for a Christmas concert. They have also played for Sunday worship services and in a combined program with the Central Baptist Silvertones.

Whether preparing for a performance or doing it just for the fun, there are many benefits to learning the piano. Research has shown that listening to and

Magnolia Manor of Americus Nursing Center Activities Assistant, Elaine Skipper, Giving Piano Lessons

performing music reactivates areas of the brain that support memory health. Some studies link music to improvements in physical health such as reduced blood pressure, anxiety, and pain. And as the old saying goes, “Music is good for the soul.”

While playing the piano has countless advantages, it does pose a few challenges for some of the residents. Those who have vision impairments may have difficulty reading the music notes. Elaine accommodates their needs by writing the notes in larger and darker fonts. Some of them may not feel motivated or confident enough to play at times. Elaine provides encouragement and moral support. One of the biggest challenges was making the piano more accessible to residents in wheelchairs. Thankfully, they have overcome this obstacle as well!

“Resident families and friends worked together to raise money to purchase a digital keyboard for

the residents. When Portman’s Superstore heard the story, they gave advice and discounts on the keyboard along with many accessories. This keyboard is lightweight and can be transported more easily, so the residents can adjust its position to fit their needs. The keys are also easier to play on a keyboard than the piano, making it great for those with less dexterity in their hands,” Elaine explained.

As the residents continue learning and advancing their piano skills, Elaine hopes to see them playing quiet music in the lobby for special holidays someday. She also sees the group serving as a way to spread joy and cheer to the other residents regularly. She anticipates that providing more opportunities for the students to play will inspire more residents to join the class. If you’d like to keep up with the piano students at the Americus Nursing Center and their progress, visit www. magnoliamanor.com or follow us on social media.

Magnolia Manor of Americus Nursing Center Activities Assistant, Elaine Skipper, Giving Piano Lessons

Magnolia Manor of Americus Nursing Center Administrator, Angela High, Accepting Administrator of the Year Award

Magnolia Manor of Columbus A.L. Remodeled Front Entrance

Magnolia Manor of Columbus A.L. Remodeled Chapel

Magnolia Manor of Columbus A.L. Remodeled Dining Room

Magnolia Manor of Columbus A.L. Remodeled Bedroom

Magnolia Manor of Midway Maintenance Director, Yves Kombou, Accepting the 2024 Engineering & Environmental Services Champion Award

VALUES

Creative Change and Constant Improvement G HCA Awards

Congratulations to our Americus Nursing Center campus Administrator, Angela High! Angela received the 2024 New Administrator of the Year Award through the Georgia Health Care Association (GHCA).

To receive this award, the nominee must be an administrator at a skilled nursing community in Georgia for one to four years. Angela began serving residents and staff at Magnolia Manor in 2020 and has demonstrated excellent servant leadership since.

“I am grateful and honored to receive this prestigious award! We have a great team here at Magnolia Manor who come in each day ready to give their all. I’m just glad to be a part of it,” stated Angela.

Congratulations to our Maintenance Director at Magnolia Manor in Midway, Yves Kombou! Yves was awarded the 2024 Engineering & Environmental Services Champion of Long-Term Care Award from the Georgia Health Care Association. “Receiving this award is so amazing to me because I didn’t know anything about it. I was just doing my job. I am grateful to be recognized,” stated Yves.

Angela and Yves received their awards at the 2024 Winter Convention and Expo in Atlanta, GA. Congratulations to them both for achieving these great accomplishments!

Columbus Assisted Living Remodel

Residents and staff at our Columbus Assisted Living community said goodbye to the old and welcomed the new with a recent interior remodel. Right when you enter the building, you’ll notice the updates. The front lobby has a refreshed look with new furniture and interior decorations, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. New wall art and light fixtures can be spotted throughout the building. All the common areas received a fresh coat of paint in bright, cheerful shades to compliment the wall art.

As you continue to journey through the building, you’ll notice that the dining room has new furniture and light fixtures as well. Just across the hall, the activity room has been updated with new tables, paintings, and decorations. The new tables are easier to reconfigure to accommodate residents for different activities. The main sitting room has all new furniture and doubles as a media space and area to chat with friends or family. This room provides direct access to the newly added secure courtyard that allows residents to go outside without assistance. Residents also have a new chapel where they can gather for worship services.

The overall goal with this remodel was to enhance the quality of life for the residents, but we also wanted to provide an improved work environment for our staff. As a result, employees now have a designated space to enjoy lunch breaks, quiet time, meetings, and other staff-related needs. We also updated the nurse station to make completing daily tasks run more smoothly. Despite the complications of a flood during the process, the team worked together to ensure that the remodel was completed before the new year.

“I’m so thankful to our team for how they handled the flood! Everyone pulled together to make sure we got it done while continuing to serve the residents. And it was worth it because the residents are so proud of how the remodel turned out,” stated Melissa Ryland, Columbus Assisted Living Administrator.

Now that we’re entering the warmer months, Melissa and the team plan to make full use of their new secure courtyard. They have planters for the residents to participate in gardening activities and patio furniture for comfortable outdoor seating. We look forward to seeing how these changes will further improve the work and living experiences at Magnolia Manor Columbus Assisted Living!

Magnolia Manor of St. Simons Choir members, Front Row: Marge Kelso (Pianist & Musical Director), Frances Woods, Clara Henderson, and Gerry Mize (Choir Director)

Back Row: Jean Hurst, Barbara Pomerleau, Mary Bray, and Alex Hamilton

Not pictured: Barbara Meadows

CREATIVE CORNER

Music is powerful, providing many positive effects. Even though unique to each individual, music is known to reduce stress, lower anxiety, improve focus, help relaxation, and increase one’s mood. According to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, “Music is the universal language of mankind.” If you have had the pleasure of hearing the Magnolia Manor Music Makers sing, then you are likely to agree with Mr. Longfellow.

The choir members effortlessly lift the audience’s spirits with their harmonious voices, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. While the group now has several members, there were only a few initially. It all began when talented pianist Marge Kelso promised to play whenever needed.

On the Fourth of July 2022, Activity Director Gerry Mize invited Marge to perform during a sing-along for the residents. Gerry gathered lyrics to all the holiday favorites, and Marge played the piano while the residents sang. Smiles and laughter filled the room, sparking a new idea. They soon invited others to join them for a small Christmas singing.

“We should invite Clara Henderson to join the ensemble because of her voice,” Marge suggested.

Clara joined the group, and they

sang carols for the residents during the Christmas season. She lent her beautiful voice to several songs, including the extraordinary Dutch rendition of “Silent Night.” As more months passed, additional residents joined, and by the spring of 2023, they had become a choir. As spring approached, the newly formed choir decided to put on a cabaret show, donning some fun costumes. The show went off without a hitch.

“It’s nice to have an opportunity to sing again,” said Jean Hurst. Even though everyone has fun during their performances, much work goes into planning and practicing for the big event. A successful show takes hard work and dedication; typically, residents spend two to three months preparing for the big night. Gerry and Marge discuss which songs to sing. He begins to find the music while Marge starts practicing. Then, they consider how the show will flow together. Introductions and narrations are added for each song while other choir members learn the pieces they will perform. The choir meets every other week to learn new lyrics in preparation for their upcoming performance.

“I enjoy the creativity of designing the program and getting everything

lined up,” Gerry said. “Marge can play any music you put in front of her. She is such a wonderful asset to me. It’s a fun challenge for all of us.”

The choir joined the St. Simons community to celebrate Christmas during the annual Light the Night event this past December. The campus was festively decorated with sparkling Christmas lights while choir members performed beloved carols, delighting both young and old alike. After the success of their previous cabaret show, the choir decided to put on another one. Magnolia Manor Music Makers is planning a program for May. The group is currently rehearsing show tunes for the event. The choir regularly performs for worship services and hymn sings. They also made appearances at the 4th of

July program, spring sings, the Veteran’s Day salute, and other special programs.

“My experience being in the choir is such a joy and a delight because music comes from our souls and helps us express all our emotions. The feeling of singing with this team is the most amazing thing. We’re older, we still have voices, and we still have lots to sing about!” exclaimed Marge Kelso.

To learn more about the creative programs at Magnolia Manor, please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or visit www.magnoliamanor.com. And remember that music offers another positive effect – pleasure!

Magnolia Manor of St. Simons Choir Members Practicing.

Dear Friend,

“You don’t know what real love is until you’ve held your child for the first time. Being a mother is a reward.”

Ms. Sarah Frey, a mother and resident at our Magnolia Manor of Columbus Assisted Living campus, shared this precious sentiment with us. What a testimony of the unconditional love between a mother and child.

The love between a mother and her child is the purest form of love. There will never be another person that experiences the closeness that a mother does with her child. She is the first relationship her child will ever have, the first voice they ever hear, and the first person to comfort them— all this develops before the child ever enters this world! There is no other person in a child’s life that can say that. God specifically trusts a mother with the lives of the children he bestows upon her. She is meant to parent these particular children, even if at times she doesn’t feel adequate. We should never underestimate the impact a mother’s love has on her child— no matter their age. Mothers are truly gifted from God.

As Mother’s Day approaches, we invite you to recognize your mother or a mother figure in your life by making a generous donation to Magnolia Manor in her honor or memory. The League of the Good Samaritan is the benevolent arm of Magnolia Manor that provides our residents with financial support and chaplaincy services. Your contribution to The League of the Good Samaritan helps Magnolia Manor continue to deliver extra love and support to our senior residents. We greatly appreciate your generosity!

Sincerely,

Chealsea Cromer Director of Donor Relations

Happy Mother’s Day to Columbus Assisted Living Resident Sarah Frey

LEADERSHIP

Mr. Pete Cates

Mr. Ed Collier

Mrs. Ann Harris Mrs. Edie Vinson

Mr. Mark Johnson, Chairman

Mr. Will Peterson, IV

Mr Charles Pryor

Mr. Chuck Reeves,Vice Chairman

Mr. Rick Whaley

Mrs. Jean Wheeler, Secretary

Mr. George Youmans, Jr.

ACTIVITIES

Americus Retirement Center Valentine’s Day Dinner and Dance

Columbus Assisted Living Valentine’s Day Party

Midway Valentine’s Day Party

Macon Valentine’s Day Dance Party

ACTIVITIES

Mattie H. Marshall St. Patrick’s Party

Americus Independent Living St. Patrick’s Day Party

Moultrie Campus Staff Participated in the Colquitt Regional Corporate Health St. Patty Annual 5K & Fun Run

Columbus West St. Patrick’s Day Bingo

Richmond Hill St. Patrick’s Day Party

St. Simons Spring Family Social

Macon Easter Eggstravaganza

Midway Had a Visit from the Easter Bunny

Rev. Tom Dowdy Handcrafts Palm Crosses For All Our Residents

Americus Retirement Center Easter Egg Coloring

Americus Mattie H. Marshall Easter Egg Hunt

TRIBUTES

Janurary 2024 – March 2024

In Memory of...

Joan Anderson

Mr. Jack Miller

Ms. Jeffie Tharpe Wall

Janis Baldwin

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Reeves

Carole Brown

Ms. Jeffie Tharpe Wall

Dr. Bill Buntin

Ms. Beth Joiner

Dr. R.M. Buntin

Ms. Beth Joiner

Jeanette Byers

Friendship Sunday School Class

Bill Byram

Mr. Joe Daniel

Alan Carson Loveard & Dorothy McMichael

Tom Collins

Mrs. Pat Hill

Levy H. Cook

Ms. Ruth Cook

Barbara Crenshaw

Mr. & Mrs. Ray Crenshaw

Hiram & Mildred Crenshaw

Mr. & Mrs. Ray Crenshaw

Vicki Williamson Crew

Leonard & Hilda Abell

Mrs. Margot Hudson

The Joiner Family

Mr. & Mrs. Wally Joiner, Jr.

Kay & Charles Reeves

Alyene J. Culpepper

Loveard & Dorothy McMichael

Jack Davidson

Jean H. MciItosh and family

Dr. Charlie Davis

Robin & Frank Lowrey

Dr. William Dragoin

Ms. Charlene Hayes

James (Jimmy) Hubert

Drumm, Jr.

Mrs. Jody Simpson

Dewitt Drury

Rev. & Mrs. Eugene Cochran

Mary Elizabeth Dunbar

Ms. Rhonda Carmichael

Mrs. B. L. Durden

Mr. Keith Hagen

Lester Eakes

Ms. Mary Lucy Murrah

Judy Exley

Mr. Joe Daniel

Ron & Joyce Gregory

Ms. Charlene Hayes

Mrs. Arlee McCoy

Elizabeth Buchanan Filbey

Ms. Jeffie Tharpe Wall

David Anthony Franks

Mr. & Mrs. Richard DeLong

Dr. Louise Galloway

Ms. Rhonda Carmichael

Earl Gammage, Jr.

Ms. Jeffie Tharpe Wall

Faye Gowen

Mrs. Edie Vinson

Myron Hancock, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. James Hamilton Jr.

James & Lynn Harvey

Col. & Mrs. Donnie Courson

Arthur Herndon, Jr.

Ms. Wynn Herndon

Mason & Beryl (Pat) Holland

Mr. & Mrs. Albert VanCleave Jr.

William G. (Bill) Hudson, Jr.

Mr. Joe Daniel

Mack & Linda, Bill & Sherri, Christy & Jim

Loveard & Dorothy McMichael

Bill & Mary Claire Reeves

Mrs. Edie Vinson

Harold Israel

Loveard & Dorothy McMichael

Dave and Mary Frances Kennedy

Mr. & Mrs. Steve Kennedy

Etta (Mickey) Klein

Ms. Jeffie Tharpe Wall

Joann Simpkins Lightle

Mrs. Arlee McCoy

Bobby & Rebecca McNeill

Mr. Joe Daniel

Leah Millman

Mr. David Millman

Dr. Hugh Lamon Moates

Ms. Jeffie Tharpe Wall

Jacquelyn (Jackie) Mullis

Sandra & Clyde Isom

Mr. William Mullis

Ms. Nancy Usry

Shirley Reese

Mrs. Norma Wall

Lamar (Sparky) Reeves

Ms. Jeffie Tharpe Wall

Steve (Stevie) Roach, Jr.

Kay & Charles Reeves

Vi Roach

Kay & Charles Reeves

Mary Lynn Shealy

Ms. Jeffie Tharpe Wall

Jim Shirah

Mr. Douglas Daly

Mr. Jeff Hughes

Ms. Elizabeth Pannell

Drs. Alex Turner & Louis Riccardi

Ms. Jessica Sizemore

Mr. & Mrs. Larry Wilbanks

Sandra Smith

Mack & Linda Martin

Bill & Mary Claire Reeves

Bobby Strange, Sr.

Mr. Joe Daniel

Marcia Sutton

Loveard & Dorothy McMichael

Frances Tharpe

Ms. Jeffie Tharpe Wall

Jean Trego

Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Seymour

Annie W. Tripp

Mr. Lonnie H. Duke

James (Jimmy) D. Tripp, Jr.

Mrs. Joan Tripp

Miriam Vaughn Tucker

Mr. & Mrs. David Irwin

TRIBUTES

Janurary 2024 – March 2024

In Honor of...

Mildred Tyler

Mr. Joe Daniel

Tim Vinson

Ms. Jeffie Tharpe Wall

Clyde & Carolyn Wall

Sally Wall Clark

Charlotte Wells

Mr. Mark Podlin

Rev. W. Raymond Wilder

Derek & Charlene McAleer

Rev. M. Burns Willis

Derek & Charlene McAleer

Lucile Weed Witt

Ray & Donja Tripp

Charlie Zimmerman

Mr. & Mrs. Richard DeLong

Rev. Henry Bass

Concord Methodist Church (Ellaville)

John Davidson

Mrs. Jean Carswell

Jeni Hixon

Mrs. Edith West

Ty Kinslow

Concord Methodist Church (Ellaville)

Julie McCollum

Mrs. Patsy Watson

Wayne Ponder

Friends at Pine Level Church

The least of these Ms. Betty Daniels

All Veterans

Daughters of the American Colonists

Rev. Dr. John Walker

Brooklet UMC

Brooklet UMW

Mrs. Edith West

With grateful appreciation for those who support our ministry.

General Donations

2 Dukes Barbeque

Mr. Philip Akins

Mr. Jeff Alexander

Americus Pawn & Jewelry

Americus Salem Methodi Church

Americus Veterinary Hospital

Mr. & Mrs. H. R. Arnold

Art Hive

Mr. Jeffrey Askins

Bailey-Thompson Fund

Keelan Barkley

Rev. & Mrs. Eugene Barlow

Mr. Zack Barlow

Dr. & Mrs. Robert Bartosh

Rev. Henry Bass

Mrs. Doris Batts

Beacon Sunday School Class

Bemiss UMM

J. D. Benson

Mr. Adam Berkstresser

Beulah Church

Mr. William Bixby

Mr. & Mrs. Lamar Black

Mr. Bryant Bledsoe

Candy Blue

Mr. D. Vance Boone

Ms. Dorothy Bosquet

Mr. Steve Brock

Mr. Craig Brookes

Brooklet UMW

Ms. Marla-Deen Brooks

Mr. Donald Broome

Ms. Samantha Brown

Mr. & Mrs. Jim Buchanan

Mrs. Joyce Buchanan

Buena Vista UMC

Ms. Mary Burch

Mr. James Burke

Mr. Charles Burnett

Mr. & Mrs. Judson Butler

Cake Art by Jen

Canterbury Kitchen

Mrs. Claudia Carney

Cele Carpenter

Center For Educational Adventure

Century 21 Americus Realty, Inc.

Ms. Kathy Chalker

Mr. Joe Chesnut

Mr. William Chestnut

Citizens Bank of Americus

Chris Clark

Christian Clark

Ms. Sally Clark

Ms. Mona Claxton

Ms. Geraldine Colbert

Communities of Coastal

Georgia Foundation

Concord Methodist Church (Ellaville)

Ashton Cooke

Mr. & Mrs. Laurence Cranch

Mr. Colton Crawford

Darylond Crawford

L. Crawford, Jr.

Mr. Lamar Crawford

Payton Crawford

Mr. & Mrs. John Crisp

Crossroads Church of Perry

Mr. John Davis

Dawson First UMW

Mr. Eric Dokter

Mr. Joseph Duke

ECP Distributors, Inc.

Mrs. Susie Etheredge

Mr. & Mrs. Jimmy Faircloth

Mr. Joel Finley

Mr. Kyle Foerster

Mr. & Mrs. Hill Fort

Ms. Carol Foster

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Foster

General Mills

Mr. & Mrs. Lee George

Georgia Cochran Sunday School Class

Georgia Southwestern Foundation, Inc.

Gibson Community Church, Inc.

Mr. & Mrs. Kirk Glenn

Mr. John Goodrich

Grace Dennis Sunday School Class

Graham UMC

Traci Grantham

Gray Women in Mission

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Greene

Mr. Matthew Greene

Bentley Griffin

Rev. & Mrs. Hall Grimmett

Mrs. Vivian Hancock

Hang It Up Co.

Mr. William Harrison

Hart Eye Care Clinic

Hartsfield UMC

Healthcare Academy

Mr. Alfred Hiers

Hilton Methodist Church

Rev. & Mrs. William Carl Howard

Robin Hudgins

Mr. & Mrs. Sam Hunter, Jr.

Rev. & Mrs. John Irwin IV

Mr. Kevin James

Mr. Brad Johnson

Damonica Johnson

Mr. & Mrs. George Johnson

Mr. & Mrs. W. Frank Joiner

Mr. & Mrs. Wally Joiner, Jr.

Joseph D. Cooley, Jr.

Irrevocable Trust

Junior Service League of Americus

Keysville UMC

Mr. & Mrs. Melvin Kinslow

Col. & Mrs. Keith Lacey II

Ms. Debra Lane

LifeSpring UMC

Mr. Chase Lightner

Little Brother’s Bistro & Cafe

Ms. Dawn Lott

Drs. Alex Turner & Louis Riccardi

Dr. & Mrs. Frank Lowrey

Lumature Wealth Partners, LLC

Lumpkin UMC

Magnolia Manor Pharmacy

Dorothy T. Martin Trust

Detriell McClain

Ms. Kay McCranie

McKee Family Endowment

Mr. & Mrs. Bryan McMichael

Med Spa Of Americus

Mr. Chuck Meek

Mr. Clay Meek

Mr. William Meek

Ms. Elizabeth Menne

Metro Power

Dr. John Mixon, Jr.

Modern Studios of Photography

Mr. & Mrs. David Morrison

Ms. Claire Murphy

Everett Murray Trust

National Financial Services

Connor Neal

Mr. & Mrs. John Neff

New Era Land Company

OneDigital

Ms. Elizabeth Pannell

Park Ave Church

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Parks

Miss Elizabeth Payne

Peoples South Bank

Perry Brothers Company

Piedmont Construction Group

Mr. Lee Pierson

Piney Mount UMC

Plains Methodist Church

Pleasant Grove Church (Baldwin Co. Circuit)

Propel Insurance

Mr. Charles Pryor

DONATIONS

Janurary 2024 – March 2024

RDG Planning & Design

Mr. & Mrs. Chuck Reeves

Mr. Kevin Reeves

Mr. Mike Reeves

Dr. & Mrs. William Reeves

Alli Reid

Mr. Jim Reid

Mr. William Blake Reid

Mr. Hank Riley

Mr. Michael Robbins

Rev. Sam Rogers III

Ms. Seleta Rogers

Rogers UMC

Mr. & Mrs. Donald Roland

Ms. Sarah Rondeau

Ms. Mary Nell Rush

Mr. & Mrs. Terry Salter

Salters Painting & Roofing

Sandersville UMC

Mrs. Lynda Scarborough

Servants of God Sunday

School Class

Mr. Martin Shealy, Jr.

Sheppard House

Sheridan Construction

Shiloh UMC (Hahira)

Mr. Wade Shiver

Shiver Lumber Company, Inc.

Mr. Brian Short

Ms. Shane Short

Mr. & Mrs. C. Byrd Simmons

Dr. Joey Slappey

Ms. Clara Slaughter

Ms. Cassandra Smith

Ms. June Smith

Springhead UMC

St. Mark UMC (Douglas)

St. Marys Methodist Church

St. Peters UMC

St. Simons Island UMC

St. Simons UMW

Mrs. Vesta Steedley

Mr. & Mrs. Bob Sternenberg

Ms. Tami Stogner

The Estate of Juanita Fuller

The Kinnebrew Company

The Station

Mrs. Elizabeth Thompson

Three’s Company Too

Dr. & Mrs. William Tietjen, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Todd

Mr. Tim Toomey

Topiaries

Mr. & Mrs. George Torbert

Mr. & Mrs. Carl Tott

Gary & Janice Turner

Mr. & Mrs. Ty Turner

Valdosta First Methodist Church

Rev. & Mrs. C. Benjamin Varnell

Mr. & Mrs. John Vasbinder

Mrs. Edie Vinson

Wadley First Methodist Church

Ms. Inez Wallace

Burke Walters

Luray S. Ward Trust

Waycross First UMC

Mrs. Janis Webb

West Wells

Mrs. Edith West

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Whaley

Mr. & Mrs. Wes Wheeler

Ms. Kristina White

Willacoochee Christian

Church

Mr. Oscar Williams

Mr. & Mrs. George Youmans, Jr.

IN MEMORIAM

Janurary 2024 – March 2024

Betty Benton

Carey Brock

Sandra Brunner

Mattie Bryant

Diane Cardoso

Dottie Clayton

Patricia Cole

Shirley A Cook

Lila A Crawford

Edison H Davidson

John C Davidson, Jr.

Judith Dean

McArthur Deriso

Eugene T Dowd

Betty J Ellis

Judy Exley

Margie Felgenhouer

Nancy E Funk

Isabelle S Gatlin

Annie Gorman

Kathryn I Harrington

Francis J Harris

Mary C Harris

Dorothy D Hood

Huey Hood

Louie Hurst

Joyce H Jacobs

Emma M Jenkins

Grace M Johnson

Peggy Jordan

Brenda B Kennedy

Jeanne E Klippel

Roger J Lacroix

Keith E Lee

Marc D McKeever

Deborah R Middleton

Doris S Minter

Elizabeth Nicotra

Joanne Ogilvie

Claude V Pierce

Marge M Powell

Nancy Powell

Essie M Ramsey

Charles J Rifenbery

Linda B Ring

Kay Y Robertson

Beatrice Ross

Allen J Russell

Jessie J Seldon

Leola W Shepard

William Stoops

Elizabeth W West

Joseph A White

Jo Ann Wilson

Lois Winsness

For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death. Psalm 48:14

If you are receiving more than one copy of this magazine or would like to be removed from our subscription list, please notify Robert Wisham at (229) 931-5924 or by email at RWisham@magnoliamanor.com

Campuses

Magnolia Manor Methodist Nursing Center

2001 South Lee Street Americus, GA 31709

Administrator: Angela High (229) 931-5942

Magnolia Manor Retirement Center 2001 South Lee Street Americus, GA 31709

Administrator: Robin Albritton (229) 931-5972

Magnolia Manor Mattie H. Marshall Memory Care Center 2001 South Lee Street Americus, GA 31709

Administrator: Tabitha Salter (229) 931-5943

Magnolia Manor of Columbus West

P.O. Box 9696 2010 Warm Springs Road Columbus, GA 31908 Columbus, GA 31904

Administrator: Daron Butler (706) 324-2251

Magnolia Manor of Columbus East

P.O. Box 9696 2010 Warm Springs Road Columbus, GA 31908 Columbus, GA 31904

Administrator: Tekel Harrison (706) 324-0387

Magnolia Manor of Columbus Assisted Living

P.O. Box 9696 2010 Warm Springs Road Columbus, GA 31908 Columbus, GA 31904

Administrator: Melissa Ryland (706) 327-5032

Magnolia Manor of Macon

200 Pierce Avenue Macon, GA 31204

Administrator: Ivy Bembry (478) 743-0178

Magnolia Manor of Macon Assisted Living

200 Pierce Avenue Macon, GA 31204

Administrator: Ivy Bembry (478) 743-5906

Magnolia Manor of Marion County P.O. Box 197 349 Geneva Road Buena Vista, GA 31803 Buena Vista, GA 31803

Administrator: Edward Iturburu (229) 649-2751

Magnolia Manor of Midway

652 North Coastal Highway Midway, GA 31320

Administrator: Janice Baker (912) 884-3361

Magnolia Manor on the Coast

141 Timber Trail Richmond Hill, GA 31324

Administrator: Mike Battle (912) 756-4300

Magnolia Manor of St. Simons Nursing & Rehab 2255 Frederica Road

St. Simons Island, GA 31522

Administrator: Jackie Crisp (912) 638-9988

Magnolia Manor of St. Simons

100 Heritage Drive

St. Simons Island, GA 31522

Administrator: May Stevens (912) 638-3844

Magnolia Manor of St. Marys

4695 Charlie Smith, Sr. Highway St. Marys, GA 31558

Administrator: Lisa Battistelli (912) 673-7713

Magnolia Manor South

3011 Veterans Parkway Moultrie, GA 31788

Administrator: Lisa Ostrander (229) 985-0265