opelika-legacy

Denise Keirstead: A Life Full of Family, Fun, and Song

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 14:12:44 GMT

Resident Spotlight: Denise Keirstead

If you wander through The Harbor at Opelika and hear laughter or the strains of a classic tune, there’s a good chance you’ll find Denise Keirstead at the heart of it all. Though she grew up in Waltham, Massachusetts, Denise’s life is filled with stories that reach from the Cape’s sandy shores to the joyful rhythms of her days here.

Denise was married to her husband for fifty-five years—a partnership built on devotion and family. Together they raised four children, Fred, Andy, Chris, and Erika, each arriving four years after the last. Family always came first for Denise, and that circle of love has only grown, with three grandchildren and now a great-grandbaby, Gemma, bringing new laughter and pride.

As a mom, Denise was the kind you could count on to be everywhere at once, cheering at football games, hockey rinks, baseball diamonds, and basketball courts. She made sure her kids were supported, whether it was field hockey season or the final buzzer of a big game. Summers were for family escapes—packing up for Mashnee Village in Cape Cod or heading to Hyannis for days at the beach, backyard cookouts, and long afternoons by the pool. Those sun-soaked trips are among her favorite memories, and the traditions linger in every story she tells.

When her children reached high school, Denise returned to the working world as a receptionist in an office at Bentley College. She spent fifteen years there before retiring—a chapter that allowed her to return to Hyannis more often and soak in the scenery she loves. She found new joys in gardening and painting, always with an eye for beauty and a knack for making things grow. Her son Chris remembers the time she visited him at college in Virginia and spontaneously bought four stone statues for her garden—so many that she couldn’t fit them all in her car, and had to make several trips to bring each piece home.

Always active, Denise has a lifelong love of tennis, and now brings that same energy and enthusiasm to life at The Harbor. You’ll often spot her singing and dancing during karaoke, her joy infectious, or watching birds in the peaceful courtyard, looking up at the sky. Her musical tastes are as lively as her spirit—she’s just as happy grooving to Motown or Elvis as she is rocking out to AC/DC.

Denise’s warmth, positivity, and playful sense of fun brighten every day at The Harbor. Whether she’s dancing in the hallways, sharing a perceptive word, or simply enjoying the music, she reminds everyone around her that life is meant to be embraced—with family, laughter, and a little bit of song.

The Power of Connection: Why Senior Living Is Good for the Mind and Heart

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:00:47 GMT

The Power of Connection: Why Senior Living Is Good for the Mind and Heart

Social connection plays a powerful role in protecting mental and emotional well-being as we age, yet it is often one of the first things to fade when seniors live alone. Changes in health, mobility or daily routine can make it harder to stay socially engaged, leading many older adults to experience isolation without realizing it. Moving into a senior living community like The Harbor at Opelika can be a meaningful step toward restoring connection, purpose and a sense of belonging as well as a means to keeping the mind sharp.

One of the greatest benefits of senior living is the built-in opportunity for daily interaction. Instead of relying on occasional visits or scheduled outings, residents are surrounded by peers and team members who become part of everyday life. Shared meals, group activities and casual conversations create natural moments of connection that help seniors feel less alone and more emotionally supported. Friendships formed often become deep and meaningful, offering comfort during both joyful and challenging moments.

Social engagement also supports mental sharpness and emotional resilience. The Harbor at Opelika offers structured programs such as musical events, games, classes and creative activities that encourage conversation and learning. These experiences help keep the mind active while providing excitement for the days ahead. For many seniors, having something to look forward to each day makes a meaningful difference in overall outlook.

For families, choosing senior living can bring peace of mind. Knowing a loved one is socially connected and emotionally supported eases concerns about loneliness and isolation. Families often notice positive changes after a move, including improved mood, increased engagement and a renewed sense of joy in their loved one’s daily life.

Ultimately, moving into a senior living community is not about giving something up. It is about gaining connection, companionship and support. By prioritizing social interaction and meaningful relationships, The Harbor at Opelika helps seniors protect their mental and emotional health while enjoying a fuller, more connected way of life.

A New Year of Wellness: Supporting Mind, Body and Spirit at The Harbor at Opelika

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 04:46:58 GMT

A New Year of Wellness: Supporting Mind, Body and Spirit at The Harbor at Opelika

After the busy holiday season, many seniors notice changes in energy levels, mobility or comfort, making the New Year a natural time for families to pause and consider what support will help their loved ones feel their best. New Year care focuses on thoughtful steps that nurture independence, confidence and quality of life throughout the year. For some seniors who may be feeling the effects of aging, a senior living community that emphasizes whole-person wellness, such as The Harbor at Opelika, can offer the right balance of support, connection and peace of mind for both residents and families.

One important part of New Year care is access to therapy services that help seniors maintain strength, balance and independence. Physical and occupational therapy can play a key role in improving mobility, supporting recovery and enhancing daily routines. At The Harbor, therapy services are coordinated with care teams, making it easier for residents to participate consistently and work toward goals that support long-term wellness.

Pain management is another essential focus as seniors begin the year. Chronic pain can affect more than just physical comfort; it can also impact mood, sleep and overall quality of life. Senior living communities take a comprehensive approach to pain management, combining medical oversight, therapy, movement and comfort-focused strategies. This collaborative care helps ensure concerns are addressed early, allowing residents to remain engaged and comfortable in their daily lives.

Staying active is a powerful way for seniors to support both physical and emotional well-being. Regular movement helps maintain flexibility, strength and balance while also encouraging social connection. At The Harbor at Opelika, residents have access to a variety of opportunities to stay active, from gentle exercise classes and walking groups to wellness programs designed to meet residents where they are. These activities are thoughtfully structured to be safe, enjoyable and empowering.

Equally important to physical care is the social connection that supports mental and emotional wellbeing. The Harbor offers daily opportunities for meaningful interaction, whether through shared meals, group activities, creative programs or simple conversations with neighbors and team members who truly know each resident. These moments of connection help reduce feelings of isolation, encourage a sense of belonging and bring joy to everyday life.

For families, knowing a loved one is supported by a compassionate team that prioritizes therapy, pain management and active living can provide lasting peace of mind. By focusing on whole-person wellness, The Harbor at Opelika help residents begin the year feeling supported, capable and connected, creating a strong foundation for health and happiness in the months ahead.

Melba and Terry Woodall: A Lifelong Adventure

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 15:09:29 GMT

Resident Spotlight Melba and Terry Woodall

What a love story we get to share! The Harbor at Opelika resident Melba and her husband, Terry, began their journey together began back in high school in Grove Hill, Alabama, when Melba was a 10th-grade cheerleader and Terry was out on the football field. After Terry was drafted into the U.S. Navy in 1970, the two kept their bond strong. They got engaged while Melba was attending Auburn University and Terry was off at his first Navy assignment.

The two married on September 8, 1974, just as Melba finished her degree in early childhood education. This year, they celebrated an incredible 50 years of marriage! The early years saw Melba moving around as Terry served as a psychiatric corpsman. Her teaching career began in Smiths Station, Alabama, where she started out as a kindergarten teacher—a role she treasured for 26 years. “The excitement of watching the kids learn was the best part of my teaching career,” she shared. Melba also taught in Monroeville and Auburn, eventually retiring in 2000.

Family means everything to Melba and Terry. They have two children, Jeremy and Elizabeth, and are proud grandparents to eight grandchildren—one watching over them from heaven. For much of their life together, the couple lived on a horse farm in Monroeville. Horses have long been a passion: when they later moved to Auburn, they opened Eagle Downs Farm in Loachapoka, where they cared for 30 horses, led trail rides, and offered boarding services. Both Melba and Terry found deep purpose in equine therapy, helping children with autism. One horse they boarded even belonged to an Auburn student and later won a prestigious jumping and dressage competition!

Melba’s interests don’t end with teaching and horses. Along with raising their children and enjoying summers at Perdido Bay, she devoted time and care to restoring their circa 1878 Greek Revival home. She’s also an avid collector, with an impressive 332 Studio 56 Dickens Village houses.

Another important chapter for the couple was their involvement with the Upward Bound education organization. Melba and Terry planned yearly student trips—they fondly recall chaperoning 72 teenagers on a memorable journey to New York City, and organized adventures to New Orleans and Nashville as well.

Football season at Eagle Downs Farm became legendary among Auburn students, with bonfires, parties, and a welcoming atmosphere that made the farm a cherished hotspot for years. After moving on from farm life, the couple bought Dr. Harry Philpot’s home on Cary Drive, where they spent seven wonderful years before their next chapter together.

Melba and Terry’s story is one of enduring love, an adventurous spirit, and a deep commitment to family and community. After 50 years, it’s clear their appreciation and affection for each other are as strong as ever.

Kay Taunton: Warmth, Faith, and Fond Memories

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 16:11:45 GMT

Resident Spotlight: Kay Taunton

December feels like the perfect time to share the story of The Harbor at Opelika resident Kay Taunton, whose life reflects the spirit of family, friendship, hope, love, and giving every day. Her kindness and thoughtfulness create warmth among everyone she meets.

Born and raised in Red Hill, Alabama, Kay is the youngest of four siblings—each with their own unique path, from a retired nursing professor to a chemical engineer to a family matriarch. Her journey has taken her through many cities, each one leaving its mark through new friendships and life’s lessons.

Kay’s professional path began at GMAC Credit Union in Montgomery, during her time living in Tallassee and later Virginia. She then worked as a bookkeeper in Birmingham for Steiner Bressler Advertising and later joined a Boys Ranch in Alexander City, supporting the work there before settling in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Eventually, life brought her to Auburn, Alabama, where she now calls home.

Faith has always been central to Kay’s life. As a lifelong Baptist, she finds joy and fellowship at the First Baptist Church of Opelika, treasuring the sense of community and worship there. Though she was married briefly and does not have children of her own, her close-knit family means the world to her.

Some of Kay’s most cherished memories come from summers spent at her family’s lake house on Lake Martin. She fondly recalls waterskiing, laughter-filled days with friends and relatives, and spirited Easter gatherings. The family tradition of the uncles hiding eggs, followed by a big meal and a softball game, paints a picture of a lively, loving celebration. “The uncles would hide the eggs,” she smiles, “and afterward, the adults would gather inside around the food while the kids sat outside on the porch and in the yard to eat.”

When not reminiscing, Kay’s love for reading shines bright, currently captivated by romance novels but always open to a good story of any kind. She’s also passionate about swimming, hiking, and beach vacations — especially trips to Gulf Shores and Panama City. Weekends are filled with her cheering alongside friends while watching football and basketball games together at The Harbor.

One adventure that stands out is her Caribbean cruise, where exploring the Bahamas and Grand Cayman offered unforgettable new sights and treasured moments—a reminder of the joy found in life’s journeys.

Through every season of her life, Kay Taunton’s warmth and openness continue to uplift those around her, embodying the true meaning of connection and community.

Caring for Seniors During the Holidays: Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Make the Move

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 14:34:04 GMT

Caring for Seniors During the Holidays: Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Make the Move

The holiday season is often filled with family gatherings, joyful traditions and meaningful moments—but for many families caring for an aging loved one, it can also be one of the most stressful times of the year. As routines change and days get busier, meeting the needs of aging parents or grandparents can become more complex, leaving family caregivers feeling stretched thin. While many families consider senior living as a helpful next step, they often hesitate to make the transition before the holidays. Common concerns include the fear that a loved one will feel lonely or abandoned, the worry it will disrupt the season and family traditions, or bring judgment from family and friends. But for many families, waiting may actually increase stress for both seniors and caregivers rather than ease it.

In reality, moving into a senior living community before the holidays can be one of the most supportive decisions a family can make. At The Harbor at Opelika, the holidays are filled with festive events, warm social connections and compassionate team members who help residents feel at home quickly. Rather than spending the season stressed and exhausted, families can share more meaningful, quality time together—free from the pressures of caregiving tasks and safety concerns. The Harbor encourages visits, whether it is at their community or at home for Christmas dinner. Instead of a disruption, the move often brings relief, stability and more joy to everyone involved.

The holidays can also highlight areas where a senior needs additional support: increased confusion in busy environments, difficulty navigating crowded gatherings and challenges with mobility often become more noticeable this time of year. The Harbor at Opelika is trained to meet these needs in a way that keeps the season enjoyable. For those with limited mobility, communities offer accessible events, transportation assistance, and safe, thoughtfully designed spaces—ensuring seniors can still participate in the traditions they love. For residents living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, structured activities, sensory-friendly celebrations and predictable daily routines help prevent overstimulation and confusion. These specialized supports help families worry less and give seniors a safer, more comfortable holiday environment.

Christmas-time is already hectic, and many caregivers are already juggling managing medications, preparing meals, assisting with personal care and coordinating doctor’s visits. By moving a loved one into a community before the holiday rush, caregivers gain the gift of rest. Rather than carrying the full weight alone, they can rely on a team of trained professionals who are available around the clock. This relief allows caregivers to enjoy holiday moments more fully—sharing stories over dinner, watching favorite movies together or simply being present without the pressure of caregiving.

It’s also important to remember that the transition into senior living doesn’t erase family traditions—it often enhances them. Families can decorate their loved one’s new apartment together, bring treasured holiday recipes to share or join community events designed to include residents and their families. If your family has been considering senior living but putting it off until the new year, this season may actually be the perfect time to make the move. With compassionate care, festive community life and support tailored to each resident’s needs, The Harbor at Opelika can help bring peace, comfort and joy to your loved one and to you.

The Harbor at Opelika Replaces Harsh Cleaning Chemicals with Safer, Non-Toxic Solutions

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 15:31:50 GMT

Replacing Harsh Cleaning Chemicals with Safer,

Non-Toxic Solutions: Viking Pure

Opelika, Ala. (Nov. 2025) — At The Harbor at Opelika, the health and safety of our residents and team members is our highest priority. As part of our commitment to providing a clean, healthy, and supportive environment, we have replaced traditional cleaning chemicals with a safer, more sustainable solution.

The Harbor at Opelika has partnered with Viking Pure Solutions, a leader in non-toxic cleaning technologies, to bring innovative, hospital-grade cleaning and disinfecting to our community. Viking Pure installs on-site systems that generate powerful cleaning and disinfecting solutions using only salt, water, and electricity. This process creates electrolyzed water: a safe, fragrance-free, and highly effective alternative to conventional chemicals.

Unlike many commercial cleaning products, Viking Pure’s solutions are free from harmful ingredients linked to respiratory issues, endocrine disruption, and other health concerns that disproportionately affect older adults. Their disinfectant is EPA-registered as hospital grade and proven to kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including norovirus and COVID-19, without the risks associated with harsh chemicals.

Bryan Cook, Co-Founder and President of Legacy Senior Living, states, “Our residents deserve the safest environment possible. With Viking Pure, we’re not just cleaning, we’re protecting the people who call this community home, as well as the caregivers and staff who support them every day.”

In addition to enhancing safety, Viking Pure helps us reduce our environmental footprint. We now generate unlimited quantities of solution on-site, eliminating supply chain concerns and reducing waste from plastic bottles and chemical deliveries.

“This upgrade aligns with our mission of providing compassionate care in a safe, sustainable setting. Viking Pure’s system gives us confidence that we’re doing everything we can to promote wellness, without compromise,” says Barry Ray, Co-Founder and CEO of Legacy Senior Living.

To learn more about The Harbor at Opelika’s community, please visit harboropelika.net . To learn more about Viking Pure’s safer approach to sanitation, please visit VikingPure.com .

COMMUNITY DETAILS

Located at 1001 Fox Run Parkway, The Harbor at Opelika is a premier memory community in Opelika, Al., that offers Alzheimer’s and dementia care services in a safe, attentive, home-like environment. The community is committed to serving the greatest generation with honor, respect, faith and integrity.

The community offers meaningful activities and life enrichment programs to enhance the lives of each resident. More information is available at harboropelika.net or by calling (334) 749-7992.

The Harbor at Opelika is a part of Legacy Senior Living, a family-owned, faith-based company with an executive team that has more than 150 combined years of experience in the senior living industry. Legacy Senior Living strives to serve the Greatest Generation with honor, respect, faith and integrity. More information is available at legacysl.net or by calling (423) 478-8071.

Fred and Delores Thompson: Partners in Life, Service, and Joy

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 16:41:05 GMT

Resident Spotlight

Fred and Delores Thompson are a remarkable couple whose life together has been rich in love, service, and unforgettable stories.

High school sweethearts from Montgomery, Alabama, Fred and Delores married in 1958, shortly after Delores completed a year at the University of Alabama. Fred went on to dedicate an incredible 42 years, 8 months, and 17 days in combined service to the U.S. Air Force—serving in the Alabama Air National Guard, Air Reserves, and Civil Service. He was a C-130 loadmaster during the Vietnam era, the Berlin Crisis, and Desert Storm, flying missions across the country and beyond.

During his military years, Fred attended Alabama Christian College (now Faulkner University) through the GI Bill. His civilian career was equally accomplished, spending many years as a chemical salesman with Central Products, serving areas from Montgomery to Mississippi. Later, he worked in security and logistics at Jackson Hospital for twenty years, and even after retirement, enjoyed a two-year stint at Montgomery Zoo.

Delores, once a Miss Atlanta pageant contestant in 1957, built a successful career as a bookkeeper with First National Bank of Montgomery. She also maintained a loyal customer base for 53 years as an Avon representative—a testament to her warmth and dedication.

Together, Fred and Delores raised three children—Jeffrey, Yvonne (deceased), and Craig—and are proud grandparents to seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Fred’s service brought him into the heart of history. He flew veterans to the 50th anniversary commemoration of Pearl Harbor, experienced the eruption of Mt. St. Helens while at survival school in Washington, and found himself in Oklahoma City on the day of the 1995 federal building bombing, waiting on aircraft parts. There were lighter moments too—like organizing trips for crews to Blue Angels and Thunderbirds air shows, always bringing joy to those around him.

Today, The Harbor at Opelika is enriched by the presence of this charming and deeply devoted couple. Their kindness, wisdom, and stories are true treasures, inspiring everyone fortunate enough to know them. Fred and Delores Thompson remind us all of the power of love, service, and a life well-lived.

Raymond Price: A Journey of Service, Stories, and Smiles

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 12:26:26 GMT

Resident Spotlight: Raymond Price

At The Harbor at Opelika, we’re honored to have the remarkable Raymond “Ray” Price as part of our family. Born in Opelika, Alabama, Ray’s life has been filled with adventure, service, and stories that span the globe.

As the son of a dedicated Army soldier, Ray moved often in his early years, living in Montgomery, Meridian (Mississippi), and even Japan. While in Japan, young Ray joined a group called The Singing Cowboys, performing on the radio—a highlight that still brings a smile to his face.

When Ray’s father retired from the Army, the family settled in Houston, Texas, where his dad became a salesman for an orange juice company. Ray attended Meridian High School, running track (the mile relay and 100-yard dash) and playing football. He was active in his church, where he helped clean the basement—a favorite hangout thanks to its ping pong tables. During high school, Ray also worked in the automotive department at Sears Roebuck.

Ray’s journey continued after junior college, when he enlisted in the Navy and served as an electronics engineer aboard the USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7), a guided-missile destroyer. He spent time deployed in the Philippines during the Vietnam War. One story Ray recalls with a laugh involves being asked to climb a tall pole, despite his fear of heights:

“I couldn’t finish the job once I got to the top. It took us a while to get down, and that CSM never asked me to do that again!” he says with a smile.

While stationed in San Diego, Ray and his fellow sailors often watched the Marines next door endure their grueling morning workouts—while the Navy’s routines were, in his words, “a lot more relaxed.” “I was happy I was in the Navy once I saw their daily regimen!” he chuckles.

Ray’s adventures didn’t stop there. During a visit to San Francisco, he met the Beach Boys before they became famous—though at the time, he admits, “I wasn’t familiar with their music, so it was a unique experience.”

After his military service, Ray returned to Houston and married his wife, Sharon. He also has a daughter, Alicia, from a previous marriage who lives in Washington State. Ray continued his career with the same orange juice company as his father, a job that eventually brought him and Sharon to Jackson, Mississippi. Later, he transitioned to a new career at an investment bank.

Eventually, Ray’s parents retired and moved back to Opelika, and a few years later, Ray and Sharon followed—settling in the country next to his family’s land.

The Harbor at Opelika Team Members Complete Thorough Training in Alzheimer's and Dementia Care

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 20:00:00 GMT

Opelika, Ala. (Oct. 2024) — The Harbor at Opelika has completed a thorough dementia and Alzheimer’s training for team members. The specific, hands-on training equips caregivers and nurses with the necessary tools to care for residents with Alzheimer’s or Dementia in a gentle, loving and knowledgeable approach.

The extensive three-day training is led by Renita Carnes, Director of Culture and Training, who is certified by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. The course covers topics such as diagnosis, prognosis and treatment, nutrition, activities and communication. The training is designed to help The Harbor’s care team understand the inner workings of someone with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

“Caring for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia can be a daunting task at times. We want to provide the best possible care for our residents by equipping our team members with a thorough and specific training,” Carnes says. “Only by understanding what these residents go through each day, can our team members be fully equipped to serve our residents with the highest quality of care.”

The training is offered to the The Harbor team every 6 months to renew certifications and train new team members. The Harbor at Opelika is committed to serving the Greatest Generation with honor, respect, faith and integrity.

The bi-annual training for team members at The Harbor is just one of the many features that makes living at The Harbor unique. The Harbor utilizes a life enrichment program, “The Purposeful Day”, which was created by co-founders, Barry Ray and Bryan Cook. “The Purposeful Day” program is designed to meet the specific needs of each resident and to continue giving them purpose in their later stages of life. The Harbor was also designed with a 1950’s theme, color scheme and décor that takes residents back to a happier time in life.

Another resource for family members, team members or community partners who are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is their Alzheimer’s Support Services. Led by Dr. Ron Harvard, this complimentary resource is designed to give support to families and caregivers who are navigating the pressures of caring for a loved one with memory loss.

“This unique training is such a great tool for our team members to care for our residents with love, gentleness and expertise. If you have a loved one that is experiencing signs or symptoms of memory loss, give The Harbor at Opelika a call today. We have amazing resources to set you and your loved one up for success,” said Doug Veazy, COO of Legacy Senior Living, management company of The Harbor at Opelika.

The Harbor at Opelika Team Members Complete Legacy Senior Living’s SERVE Training Program

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 21:18:00 GMT

Opelika, Ala. (Aug. 2024) — Team members of The Harbor at Opelika are proud to announce their completion of Legacy Senior Living’s SERVE training program. The SERVE program, created by Legacy Senior Living leadership, is a commitment to providing the best training tools possible for team members to care for residents and family members with honor, respect, faith and integrity. It is designed to equip team members with the necessary tools to provide exceptional resident care and customer service.

The SERVE training program was birthed from Legacy’s Customer Service Standards. SERVE is an acronym standing for: Speak and Smile, Encourage and Engage, Respond to Residents, Value and Validate, and Every Day is the Extra Mile. The 3-hour training goes beyond standard orientation by providing enhanced customer service tools to team members after they have acclimated to their roles. This strategic approach ensures continued guidance, success and growth for all team members.

Legacy Senior Living, the management company of The Harbor at Opelika, believes customer service is a major key to success. This program sets The Harbor apart by providing unique training requirements for all team members to provide their job duties with confidence and compassion.

The training champions of SERVE are Renita Carnes, Director of Culture and Training and Ashley Young-Roesler, Operations and Training Specialist. They conduct training through in-person sessions at each facility every 6-7 months to accommodate new hires and foster ongoing development. To reinforce key principles, SERVE posters are displayed in team member areas, serving as daily reminders of the commitment to excellence. Recertification is required every 12-18 months to uphold the highest standards.

Committed to providing a vibrant and supportive environment for all residents, family members and community partners, The Harbor at Opelika continues to lead the industry with innovative programs and exceptional care.

THE HARBOR AT OPELIKA SHARES THE HERITAGE OF ONE OF THEIR RESIDENTS TO CELEBRATE WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 17:54:00 GMT

Opelika, Ala. (March 2024) — Women’s History Month has been observed in the United States for over 35 years. It has been fundamental in recognizing women’s rights and the historical transformation of women’s rights in America. Never will you find women with such rich wisdom, experience, vibrancy and contribution as those living out their Golden Years at a senior living community. Such is the case at The Harbor at Opelika, a premier memory care center, who wish to honor and share the story of one of their beloved residents, Marie Snider.

Marie Snider was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, where she enjoyed many activities such as swimming and gardening, but one passion stood out above the rest and would end up defining her life: theatre.

“I took two buses and a train to get to the shows,” Ms. Snider recollects on her adolescent years, “Once the theatre let out, I would go to a local hotel to call my dad to come pick me up if I missed the bus.”

Ms. Snider taught English and Theatre at Orange High School in Hillsboro, NC, where she taught until she reached the top pay grade. All the while, she auditioned at her local theatre and was in quite a few performances.

Ms. Snider has one daughter, Sara, and her granddaughter Katherine has a daughter; Seraphima who is 6 months old. She is just one of the many amazing women at The Harbor at Opelika whose legacies have touched the lives of many.

“My mission in life is not merely to survive but to thrive and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” - Maya Angelo

Legacy Senior Living and Dominion Senior Living to Offer New Alzheimer’s Support Services Headed by Dr. Ronald Harvard

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 21:30:00 GMT

Cleveland, Tenn. (Feb. 2024) — Legacy Senior Living and Dominion Senior Living, a family of senior living communities serving the Eastern United States, are excited to announce Alzheimer’s Support Services, a new program for both companies. This is a free service that is designed to give support and resources to families and caregivers who are navigating the pressures of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other memory loss conditions.

Dr. Ronald Harvard has come aboard as the Director of Alzheimer’s Support Services. As a pastor, counselor, college professor and primary caregiver to his late wife, Linda, who suffered from Alzheimer’s for 20 years, Dr. Harvard brings many years of experience to this new program. At various times, Dr. Harvard has served his alma mater, Lee University, as a faculty member in the psychology department, as Director of Counseling, and as an adjunct faculty member at Lee Online. He and Linda also served as senior pastor at churches in Florida, Indiana, and Georgia.

With degrees in Biblical Studies, Social Psychology, and Pastoral Counseling, Dr. Harvard’s love for teaching and counseling have defined his life, but no more so than the love of his life, Linda, and their four children.

Dr. Harvard’s introduction to Alzheimer’s was personal and very painful. In the fall of 2003, Dr. Harvard recognized the beginning signs of memory loss in his late wife, Linda. Fifteen years later, Linda became a resident of a Legacy Senior Living community, The Harbor at Legacy Village of Cleveland. In May of 2023, Linda passed away. Dr. Harvard chronicled his struggles and victories in his blog, “Dementia: walking victoriously through the ‘Long Goodbye,’” offering lessons learned, meditations, and comfort to many.

“What became clear to me during the process of loving Linda through the battle of Alzheimer’s, was that I was being prepared to minister to families going through similar situations. My mission in leading this new Alzheimer’s Support Service is to provide behavioral insights, practical direction and comfort through support groups and one-on-one meetings,” said Dr. Harvard.

“This is a program that we are so excited to offer to families that are struggling with the challenges of memory loss. We are eager to welcome Dr. Harvard to this position as he supports other family members and caregivers navigating this overwhelming season,” said Barry Ray, CEO and Co-Founder of Legacy Senior Living.

More information about this program is available online at https://legacysl.net/alzheimers-support.

Legacy Senior Living Celebrates Certified Nursing Assistants during CNA Appreciation Week, through June 24

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 00:34:00 GMT

CLEVELAND, Tenn. (June 24, 2020) – In recognition of CNA Appreciation Week, celebrated nationally June 18-24, Legacy Senior Living is honoring a dedicated team of Certified Nursing Assistants who have been tirelessly serving residents at their senior living facilities across the Southeast during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are profoundly grateful to all our caregivers who serve our seniors in multiple ways throughout the year. During CNA Appreciation Week this year, we chose to honor those who have worked hard to become a licensed certified nursing assistant and who faithfully serve our residents,” said Bryan Cook, Co-Founder and President of Legacy Senior Living.

In its focus on COVID-19 pandemic preparedness in caring for residents at each of its facilities, Legacy Senior Living has given special attention to also caring for the caregivers. This includes keeping all facilities adequately stocked with supplies, minimizing added stress on employees during the pandemic, offering additional incentives to ensure that CDC guidelines are followed during long shifts, and absorbing the cost of outside counseling and childcare support services for employees during this difficult time.

“We are so proud of how all Legacy Senior Living’s caregivers have served so well these last few trying months, and we especially honor our CNAs on CNA Appreciation Week. We want to do everything we can to equip them so that they can continue prioritizing our residents’ safety and security during this time,” says Barry Ray, Co-Founder and CEO of Legacy Senior Living.

The hero CNAs who work night and day at Legacy Senior Living facilities have been featured on each individual facility’s Facebook page so that each local community can meet some of the local heroes who have sacrificed so much for the safety and wellbeing of the seniors during these months of unpredictability. In addition to the Hero Campaign on Facebook, nursing staff at Legacy Senior Living will be receiving hero pay for their brave work on the front lines. Also, each facility will be displaying “Heroes Work Here” signs at all building entrances to publicly recognize the outstanding nurses who work at all the facilities.

Legacy Senior Living’s support center in Cleveland, Tenn., will also be honoring the CNAs by delivering special gifts, as well as honoring all employees who serve the seniors at the facilities. All employees, including CNAs, are eligible to receive a Going the Extra Mile Award, which is a year-round employee recognition program at all Legacy Senior Living facilities. Also, the staff at Legacy Senior Living facilities will have fun with a daily drawing for team members to win money while they are at work.

Photo Caption: Renaissance Marquis, part of the Legacy Senior Living family of communities, in Rome, GA- Resident Services Director, Catie Mason, and Memory Care Director, Britni Freeman, present gifts to team members in honor of CNA appreciation week.

From Left to Right: Catie Mason, Christa McCluskey, Savanna Bryan, Melissa Weeks, Skylan Cole, and Britni Freeman

The Harbor at Opelika Honors Residents Imogene Camp and Mary Jane Jaeger on National Centenarian’s Day

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 18:18:00 GMT

OPELIKA, Ala. (Sept. 23 2019) - The Harbor at Opelika celebrates residents Imogene Camp and Mary Jane Jaeger, both 100, on National Centenarian’s Day 2019.

National Centenarian’s Day is observed annually on September 22 to recognize and honor those who are 100 years of age or older. The day was originally proclaimed as an opportunity to listen to their life stories and learn from their wisdom.

Camp, born on June 26, 1919, joined The Harbor at Opelika community in 2015; Jaeger, born on October 30, 1918, moved into The Harbor at Opelika last year.

Camp says simple pleasures keep her feeling young.

“I like to get my hair done,” she says.

Camp describes the best part of her day with one word: “chocolate.”

She and Woody, her husband of 60 years before he passed away in 2002, raised one son and one daughter. They have two grandsons and three great granddaughters.

Camp, who worked in retail sales for “a long time,” played volleyball and other sports when she was younger. She likes gardening fruits and vegetables and doing needlework and other crafts.

Jaeger, known for her beaming smiles, says she has always been a caregiver at heart.

“I never really did anything for me. I have always taken care of everyone else,” she says.

Jaeger, who is an avid reader of newspapers, magazines and mystery books, says she considers reading to be the biggest influence on her life.

“I love to read and I do a lot of it,” she says.

Jaeger loves to listen to music, especially Frank Sinatra and symphonies. She also likes gardening and working on puzzles.

Jaeger graduated with a bachelor’s degree and served as a social worker for more than 30 years. She and her husband, Fred, have one son.

Jaeger, who will turn 101 years old in just a few more weeks, insists her ready smiles are not a secret to her long life.

“No, I don’t think there is any secret. I just like to smile,” Jaeger said.

“Mrs. Jaeger and Mrs. Camp are blessings we cherish at The Harbor, and we absolutely want to honor them on Centenarian’s Day,” says Kathy Otwell, executive director of The Harbor at Opelika.

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The Harbor at Opelika Honors Residents Imogene Camp and Mary Jane Jaeger on National Centenarian’s Day

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