A Special Arrangement

By Shannon Finley

New residents moving to Oak View Suites receive a flower arrangement as a welcome gift when they move in. Nine months ago, Oak View Suites resident Jean Strickler starting assisting with these arrangements.

Prior to moving to Oak View Suites in February 2021, Jean was very involved in her large congregation in Virginia, planning and leading big events and social activities for many years. She volunteered at a local hospital creating flower arrangements for their patients. She also had a side business as a wedding planner and was a master gardener. Jean won many neighborhood awards for her flower beds and has served in several garden clubs.

Knowing Jean’s background, Life Enrichment Coordinator Nancy Crommett asked if she would be interested in making the arrangements. Of course she said “yes!” Nancy purchases the precut flowers, then they both go outside to cut greenery from the variety of plants and shrubs. They often joke that they are helping the grounds crew keep the plants trimmed! Jean then transforms everything into a beautiful arrangement. Jean’s love for gardening came from her husband and the passion they shared. Her love of gardening and flower arranging has helped spread joy to Oak View Suites as she has also helped arrange centerpieces for events such as the Celebration of Mothers' Tea Party and the Christmas Luncheon. It’s a win-win situation for Oak View Suites: Jean gets to do something she truly enjoys and misses and Oak View Suites gets their own “in-house florist.”

Since moving to Oak View Suites, Jean has been an active member of their community, participating in all activities, always ready to lend a helping hand to other residents and is loved by all. Besides gardening and flower arranging, Jean enjoys knitting, coloring, and crafts in general. She was the first-place winner of the Halloween hat contest.