Resident Spotlight

A Man With A Mission

The telephone rings at 8:30 pm. It is someone in need of prayer and comfort. Larry McKenzie redresses and goes to the hospital. This is the kind of day it has been for Larry since arising at 6:00 that morning. His calendar for each day, he says, “comes from God”. On arising each morning, Larry quotes scripture from Psalms: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it”. He then asks God, “Lord what would you have me do today?” His answer comes from phone calls, emails and conversations with others.

Anyone acquainted with Larry McKenzie recognizes that he is a godly and humble man who lives to serve others. At a service honoring Larry on his 35th anniversary at Highland Street Church of Christ, it was acknowledged that Larry’s work “covered a larger spectrum than most in his position-from being the resident expert on every piece of equipment in their building, and also one who knows exactly how to word a prayer in a hospital room, or say the right thing at a funeral. He counsels with troubled individuals, teaches searchers about the Gospel, visits those with special needs and additionally supervises staff and custodial personnel”.

Recently, the leadership and congregants of Highland Church of Christ honored Larry for his fifty(50) years of association with them. What an unusual feat! He has not kept records but estimates that he has conducted at least 400 funerals, many weddings and hundreds of counseling sessions for members of his church thus far. He said he thought preaching a funeral would get easier as he got older, but he says “that is not the case. It has gotten more difficult. You try to make each service special to honor the person”.

Since moving to Kirby Pines in December of 2014, Larry has endeared himself to the residents. His warm smile radiates from a happy, positive countenance that invites friendship. His reason for moving to Kirby Pines is because of the health guarantee. “I do not want to be a burden to any of my family”. A frequent comment one hears from other residents living at Kirby Pines! “Not having to cook and wash dishes” are what he likes best about living here.

In addition to his usual work schedule, Larry is now serving as President of the Resident’s Association at Kirby Pines. He says that the responsibilities of that job are more challenging than he had anticipated. His goal as President is to be a communication conduit to the residents and to help every new resident of Kirby Pines feel welcomed and become involved in some of the activities at Kirby Pines. He visits local hospitals most days to pray with those members of his church and residents of Kirby Pines who are hospitalized.

Larry’s story has a beginning. He was born on June 23, 1933, in Van Zandt County, Texas. He was the middle child, having 2 older brothers, then twin sisters born 22 months afterward.

From childhood, Larry said all he ever wanted to be was a farmer and a preacher. He actually began his “preacher life” early. At age 5 he baptized his 2 younger sisters in ditch water. They were covered in mud and with “hair all stringy” when they got home. One can only imagine how his mother responded.

To paraphrase a familiar saying “you can take the boy out of Texas but you can’t take Texas out of the boy”. This is pretty obvious when you see Larry in his cowboy boots (he says they are “Sunday attire”) and his occasional visits to Texas. Larry lived his entire life in Van until entering Abilene Christian College in Abilene, Texas in 1951. He met his future wife, Nelda Joe there. He graduated in January 1956 and they were married May 19, 1956.

After graduation, Larry took his first position as pulpit minister at a church in Omak, Washington, making $300 a month. There he got his wish to be a farmer. He worked in an apple orchard to supplement his income and participated in all work necessary for a successful apple business. However, Larry stopped work when temperatures reached 20 degrees!

His oldest daughter, Patricia, was born in Omak, but the family moved to Spokane, Washington, for another pulpit position when she was 2 weeks old. From Spokane, the family moved back to Abilene, Texas, for Larry to attend graduate school at Abilene Christian College. While attending school, he was also on the staff of College Church of Christ and made his first missionary trip to Perth, Australia. His second daughter, Robin was born in Abilene.

Then, in January 1969, Larry moved his family to Memphis where he began his ministry at Highland Street Church of Christ. Throughout his ministry, Larry has made numerous missionary journeys. He says he has had the privilege of visiting 32 countries and all but 5 states in the U.S. His missions have included 10 trips to Papua, New Guinea and 10 to Ukraine, to name only a few. He was part of Mission/1000 at Highland church for 19 sessions, teaching a seminar on prayer. He intends to continue missionary work as long as possible.

In addition to his 2 daughters, Patricia and Robin, Larry has an older brother and one sister still living. He has 2 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. His wife Nelda Joe passed away from complications of Alzheimer’s in 2010.

Certainly, Larry has a strong spiritual and serious side, but he also has a definite sense of humor. He is known by his friends for “the Larry McKenzie’isms”, such as “it ain’t braggin’ if you done it’. When asked how he would like to be remembered, Larry responded immediately, “that I was a blessing to someone when no one else could be”. He also acknowledges the support and mentoring he has received in all the places he has been employed, especially at Highland Church of Christ. “without this and the love from members of the congregation, I would not be where or who I am today”.

Our good fortune as residents of Kirby Pines is that Larry McKenzie chose to live among us. Let us fold our arms around him, as he is doing for us and pray for his continued service and a STRONG FINISH!

Written by resident, Joan Dodson

AN UNEXPECTED LOVE

Cupid, the little chubby cherub who does amazing things with his bow and arrow, is thought to be especially active during the month of February. He took aim and shot a final bow into the hearts of Carolin Wolfe and Ken Thomason on February 14, 2010, as they were married before a host of family and friends in the Chapel at White Station Church of Christ. They will celebrate 9 happy years together this coming Valentine’s Day.

Their love story is special because neither was looking or expecting to find another love. Both had been married previously but had lost their spouses to death, Carolin in 2002 and Ken in 2006. Their lives continued as singles until that fateful day they met at church. A friend had connected them on Facebook, but, they had never met until the day Ken recognized Carolin and asked her to help him with his computer. A likely story, Ken!

Their courtship did begin in fact with Carolin helping Ken with his computer. That led to lunch, later a movie, another work session on the computer, dinner, etc. “We fell in love with each other! Neither of us expected this to happen, but happen it did!”, exclaims Carolin. Carolin says she fell in love with Ken because his kindness and compassion made it easy to love him. “He was exactly the man I was NOT looking for – but, I’m so glad I found him!”. Ken loves to be involved in so many things at Kirby Pines such as the Garden Club and exercise classes. Carolin especially likes the fact that he loves to cook and that he is a wonderful Christian man. How lucky can you be?

Ken says he fell in love with Carolin because “She is a lovable, patient and joyful person. She is kind and good to everyone, a faithful Christian and very generous with her time with others”. Carolin also has become a volunteer at The Blossom Shop and is involved in the Entertainers Chorus and the Kirby Pines Photo Club.

Both Carolin and Ken agree” “We enjoy so many things together and we have fun together. Perhaps the most fun we’ve had was keeping our friends and families guessing about our relationship after we met. They were always anticipating and asking questions”. Looking for and selecting their wedding rings was also a very special time. Finally, they “let the cat out of the bag” and began deciding a date for the wedding – Valentine’s Day was perfect. So, on a Sunday afternoon, February 14, 2010 they were married with Leon Sanderson officiating. Every member of the immediate family of both Carolin and Ken was present at the wedding. A joyful time for friends and family and the joining of two families together.

Ken was born and grew up on a farm in Mt. Pleasant, Tennessee. Prior to completing high school at the age of 17, Ken enlisted in the Navy. On leaving the Navy, he returned to complete high school and tried commercial and residential painting. Deciding that profession was not for him, Ken enrolled in Barber College, eventually establishing his own business for 56. He was President of the Federal Hair Cutters Credit Union for 12 years and for 24 years, he served as an Elder of the White Station Church of Christ. From his first marriage, he has 2 daughters, 5 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren with another on the way.

Carolin was born in Ohio but moved to West Virginia at an early age. She was the oldest of 4 children, 2 girls, and 2 boys. She changed schools 6 times because of her father’s work in construction. Following graduation from high school, she completed 2 years at Freed-Hardeman in Henderson, Tennessee, then went to Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas, completing her BS Degree in 1963. She married soon after graduation and moved to Memphis, Tennessee. From this marriage, she had 1 daughter, 2 sons and 8 grandchildren. Carolin obtained a Master’s Degree from Memphis State in 1973 and spent 45 years at Harding Academy as a teacher or principal, retiring in 2009. From her demeanor and personality, one can deduct what a wonderful kindergarten and first grade teacher she was!

So, back to the love story. Although during their short marriage they have had some sadness, their love has increased as well as their family members. Their favorite place to visit is Gatlinburg and they have visited there many times during their marriage. It was the place they selected for their honeymoon. They made the decision to become residents of Kirby Pines in August of 2016, and Carolin says, “We love living at Kirby Pines and participating in all the activities”.

Being devout Christians, both Carolin and Ken felt that 2 scriptures have guided their lives and asked they be included in their story. From Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous hand”. And from Isaiah 46:4: “I will be your God throughout your lifetime until your hair is white with age. I made you and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you.”

Chances are, if you see a couple walking along holding hands, it is very likely to be Ken and Carolin. Many couples living at Kirby Pines, are in second and even third marriages. So, if you are single and wish to remain that way, you better watch out because Cupid is alive and well and keeping an eye on Kirby Pines!

— Written by resident, Joan Dodson

 

A HUMBLE LIFE WELL LIVED

Charles William Parrott, Jr. was born February 27, 1930, in Memphis, Tennessee. His father, Charles, Sr. was a maintenance man at the old Ford Motor Company plant on Riverside Drive. His mother, Mary Blanche, became an LPN and worked at St. Joseph’s Hospital in the emergency room. Charles, Jr. (Charlie) eventually had two brothers, one 11 years and the other 16 years his junior. He attended Southside High School and went on to get his Bachelors Degree at Memphis State University. At one point he had to leave school to work for the Post Office to earn money to go back. He ended up serving in Korea with the Army Infantry. Upon his return in 1953, he was able to finish school on the GI Bill and enrolled in medical school.

Laura Ann MacDougall was born December 3, 1936, in Braintree, Massachusetts. Her father, John Wallace MacDougall, was a fireman, then a railroad engineer, and drove for City Oil. (According to Dr. Parrott, his father-in-law had the ability to set out and do whatever he dreamed of doing.) Laura’s mother, Mildred Ruth, was a kindergarten teacher. Laura had one older sister and a younger brother and sister. She graduated from Braintree High School and went on to earn her RN at the Children’s Hospital School of Nursing in Boston. She worked as a scrub nurse for Dr. Gross, who was a pioneer in children’s cardiology. Because of her experience, she was offered a job at LeBonheur Children’s Hospital, wherein 1958, she assisted with the first successful open heart surgery on a child.

At that time, Laura was living at the Park Tower Apartments, which was walking to distance to work, and Charlie just happened to be living at LeBonheur while attending UT Memphis Medical School. Charlie was able to earn tuition money, room and board by cleaning medical equipment and assisting at the hospital. One of the pieces of equipment he cleaned was a Heart and Lung Machine, used by Laura, they became friends.

Charlie, Laura and their friends would have pizza parties and would spend the day on McKellar Lake in Charlie’s father’s boat. They were having a great time and working hard. On December 20, 1959, they were married in Laura’s hometown. The newlyweds had to be back in Memphis for New Year’s, so they honeymooned at Niagra Falls – with only one other couple – it was freezing cold in December, but beautiful.

Charlie finished school at UT that year and went to work for Baptist Memorial Hospital. They lived at 653 Jefferson Avenue, then moved to Whitehaven, where Charlie opened his practice at 4299 Highway 51 South. They had four children, Chip, Linda, Thomas and John. Laura stayed at home once Linda was born. They enjoyed life. The kids went to private school, they had a place on the lake, they loved fishing – Charlie claims he’s caught more crappie than any man in the south – Laura was a Girl Scout Leader, Charlie was involved in the Boy Scouts and they attended Whitehaven Baptist Church, where Charlie taught Sunday School. In 1988, the kids were grown and Charlie sold his practice.

Charlie then worked for the IC Railroad out of New Orleans, they were able to ride the train for free. He had a list of doctors the train workers could see and opened an extended hours clinic just for them.

Charlie and Laura moved to Gulf Shores, Alabama. They lived on the beach for seven years then finally built a house just north of there. They both played golf, and Laura even became the women’s champion for two years at Craft Farms. Charlie would travel to Indian reservations in Oklahoma and Nevada providing healthcare to those without access. He was instrumental in having “Samaritan Laws” changed to get people help without being sued. They opened free clinics in Alabama with the help of the Alabama Medical Society. The clinics were staffed entirely by volunteers helping those without insurance, most of which were migrant workers. They gave away samples of meds and talked to the local hospital into delivering babies, doing x-rays and more. With the success of the free clinics, they began looking into a permanent retirement plan.

They looked around Mobile, Alabama, but Charlie’s aunt had lived at Kirby Pines, and their children lived closer by. The family also grew to include children’s spouses and nine grandchildren. After learning about LifeCare, their decision was made and they moved to Kirby Pines in August of 2010. They love the beautiful grounds and are thankful for the security they have. They stay active and involved in so many things, but say they don’t do as much as they used to. Charlie is in charge of the Garden Club – with the help of Laura – he tinkers in the Hobby Shop, is a member of the Men’s Christian Fellowship and started up the Red Ribbon Project, also known at Kirby as the Prayer Warriors. Laura participates in Water Aerobics, Garden Club and volunteers at The Blossom Shop, to name a few. They are always willing to help, always have a smile on their faces and are two of the nicest people you will ever meet. So Thank You, Charlie and Laura, for deciding to make Kirby Pines your forever home.

A SALUTE TO A VETERAN

Remember the first time you rode an airplane or the adrenaline rush you felt when you first flew in a plane powered by a jet engine? Caroline Coleman Thomas, one of our many veterans living at Kirby Pines, was a member of the prestigious 101st Airborne Division of the US Army. Her experience as a paratrooper included not only many flights, but 325 jumps with a parachute. Later on, she would rappel from a helicopter 270 times WITHOUT a parachute. Talk about an adrenaline rush!

Caroline Thomas is an outstanding representative of the many veterans living at Kirby Pines. To all of them, we offer our thanks for their courageous and often dangerous efforts which allow us to have the freedom we enjoy today. Here is Caroline’s story:

Caroline Coleman was born into a military family. Both her father and mother served during World War II. Her mother was a member of the Women’s Air Corp and was assigned to the Japanese Intelligence Office in the Pentagon. Caroline began her life in December of 1952 in Laramie, Wyoming. Her family moved often during her early life, but Caroline, at age 11, along with her parents, brother and sister, found a permanent home in Little Rock, Arkansas where her father was the State Veterinarian for Arkansas.

While in high school, Caroline met her future husband, Van Thomas. Van graduated from The Citadel with a BS in Business Administration. Caroline graduated from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville with a BS in Foods and Nutrition. She later received a Masters in Business Administration from Emory Riddle Aeronautical University. After their marriage, they joined the US Army together.

After completing basic training, Caroline was sent to Aberdeen Proving Grounds to train as an automotive mechanic. Van was sent to Fort Benning, Georgia to train as an infantry soldier. Caroline would later join Van at Fort Benning where they both trained as paratroopers. Caroline won her Airborne Wings and began her 325 parachute jumps.

After completing this training, Caroline and Van were stationed with the 101st Airborne Division/Air Assault at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, where they both received training as Air Assault Troopers. As you may remember, the 101st Airborne Division became famous for their efforts in defeating the Germans in “The Battle of the Bulge” in World War II. The series Band of Brothers depicts their bravery.

Caroline won her Air Assault Wings and began rappelling out of helicopters. Caroline jokes that the only difference between jumping out of an airplane and jumping out of a helicopter is with one you have a parachute, the other you don’t! As Caroline explained, the reason for the rappelling from a helicopter is that you can fly low and then rappel through the trees, as in the jungle. A parachute would get tangled in the trees.

In June 1984 Caroline and Van were assigned to Camp Casey in Korea. They became members of the 2nd Infantry Division which was deployed to guard the DMZ between North and South Korea. Because it was considered a combat zone, they remained there for only one year.

Upon returning from Korea, Caroline was again assigned to the 101st Airborne/Air Assault Division. In the summer of 1985, Caroline and Van were assigned to the Sinai Desert as part of the Multi-National Peacekeeping Force and Observers. After six months in the Sinai Desert, Van was flying home for Christmas when the plane crashed in Gander, Newfoundland, killing everyone on board. The loss of 248 soldiers from the 101st Division was approximately one-third of their total number. Such a devastating blow to the families of America.

Caroline received many medals and meritorious badges from the US Army for her service. They include one for Meritorious Service, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Sharp Shooter Medal, and as previously mentioned, her Parachute and Air Assault Wings. She served eight years in the military and retired in 1989 to private life. Following discharge, Caroline worked in several warehouses driving a forklift. She later became a minister’s assistant at Christ United Methodist Church. She was also the caregiver for her mother, who was completely blind, for 10 years.

Caroline moved from her home in Collierville to a garden home at Kirby Pines in October of 2015. Her humor and pleasant personality are her trademark. She loves her cats, Max, Ava and Ginger. She also loves spending time at her computer. She plans to resume her former hobby of knitting and has hopes of learning to crochet. She is a member of Bellevue Baptist Church, which she attends regularly.

Caroline Thomas has a special place in the family at Kirby Pines. The sacrifices she made for our country cannot be fully appreciated but let us remember to thank Caroline and all of our veterans. Caroline, for your courageous and exemplary life in the military, We Salute You!

Written by Joan Dodson, Kirby Pines Resident

A PORTRAIT OF THE CALLAWAYS

On April 5, 1936, a devastating tornado destroyed the home of the Callaway family in Tupelo, Mississippi. That tornado 78 years ago leveled 48 blocks and killed 200 people, injuring many more. Five-year-old Gene Callaway, along with his mother and brother, were trapped under debris and exposed to rain, thunder, and lightning for 30 minutes before being rescued. Fortunately for those of us at Kirby Pines and the world, Gene Callaway survived to become a prolific and famous artist.

Eugene Craven Callaway was born December 23, 1931, in Tupelo, Mississippi. His father worked for the TVA in East Tennessee and his mother was a homemaker for Gene and his brother in Tupelo. During the summer the boys, along with their mother, traveled with their father.

Following the destruction of their home, Gene’s father rebuilt and the family remained there until 1980. Gene finished high school and came to Memphis to enter business school. To avoid being drafted into the Army, Gene volunteered for the Air Force and was sent to Korea as an Adjutant’s secretary.

While stationed in the states, he attended Kansas City Junior College and Bowling Green State University in Ohio. Upon leaving the Air Force, Gene entered Memphis State University, receiving a Bachelors in Business. He was hired as an accountant by Ford Motor Company, but lacking seniority, he became unemployed when the company moved to Ohio. He re-entered Memphis State and received his Masters in Educational Administration. Following eight years of teaching at Kingsbury High School, Gene was promoted to Principal and served at White Station High School, Bethel Grove, and Cromwell Elementary Schools.

As a teenager Gene, being musically inclined, learned to play the piano and played for the Wesley Methodist Church. He also became interested in family history and genealogy becoming a charter member of the Callaway Family Association, Inc. Since 1975 he has served on the Board of Directors and as Vice President and President from 1993- 96. He is also a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, Sons of the Confederacy, Clan McLeod Society and the Tennessee Genealogical Society.

Upon retirement, Gene became an accomplished artist, ballroom and tap dancer and is known as “Twinkle Toes” Callaway by his friends. Portraiture became his love. His expertise led him to his acceptance into the art world. He was a member of the Memphis-Germantown Art League, the Bartlett Art Association and has exhibited his works in many shows. Currently, his paintings are in private collections internationally, museums, churches, and the Callaway Archives, Lagrange, Georgia.

Sara Bennett Callaway was born in New Albany, Mississippi in 1941. Her father was a farmer and business owner and her mother was a homemaker. She has one sister. During high school, Sara played varsity sports, playing basketball for four years. Even then, Sara was elected most dignified and best dressed! After graduating from Blue Mountain College, she began a teaching career at Grand Junction High School. While there she enrolled at Memphis State and received her Masters in Education and Guidance Certification. She then served the Hardeman County School System as Guidance Supervisor. Later, she became a Certified Counselor with the Memphis City School System.

Following a New Year’s Eve blind date, Sara became “smitten” with the rising, young principal, Eugene Callaway. They were married on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 1967, and became parents to one daughter, Sara Elizabeth Callaway, now deceased. Following her daughter’s death, Sara became interested in duplicate bridge, traveling to bridge tournaments all over the South. She achieved the level of Life Master and beyond. To this day, bridge is her passion. The passion has given her the opportunity to meet many bridge greats such as Omar Shariff. Sara’s past hobby was crewel embroidery, English smocking, and needlepoint.

Upon retirement Sara has served in many volunteer organizations including Friends of the Orpheum, Stage Set Theater Memphis, where she served on the Board of Directors, The Callaway Family Association, serving as the newsletter director, the Salvation Army, and Church Health Center. For years she served with the 20/20 Vision Screening Center of Emmanuel Methodist Church. Sara and Gene have retained their membership at EMC since 1968. Gene has six paintings hung there.

In August of 2017, the Callaways moved from Germantown to Kirby Pines. Gene’s artistic and musical talents are greatly appreciated. His warm smile and gentle personality invite a warm reception. Sara has many talents and life experiences. Her beautiful styling and warm disposition make for an impressive image.

Both Sara and Gene are true assets for our family at Kirby Pines.

A LIFE WELL LIVED AT KIRBY PINES

Juanita Smith (née Radcliff) was crowned Miss Wayne County of West Virginia, twice during her years of high school. Today, 87 years later, that same beauty, the sparkling eyes and the beautiful smile is still seen when looking into the face of Juanita, now 101 years old! If not for the effects of a recent stroke, one could expect to see Juanita do the Charleston, the dance she became famous for after moving to Kirby Pines.

On this, the 35th anniversary of Kirby Pines Estates, we celebrate the life of Juanita Smith who has lived at Kirby Pines longer than any other resident – 29 and a half years! Having good genes (her father lived to be 102) has no doubt been a factor in her longevity. However, she exemplifies the research that individuals living in a retirement setting tend to live longer. Juanita’s eyes light up when she remembers the good times she has had while living at Kirby Pines. While her husband Charles was living, the couple captured the dance floor as they reportedly were the best Charleston dancing couple in Memphis, or, maybe the world. She enjoyed teaching other residents how to “hula-hoop”. She also enjoyed line dancing, Tai Chi, all kinds of games, the puzzle table and most of all just socializing with her friends.

Juanita and her husband, Charles, moved to Memphis in 1984 to be near their daughter, Linda. They made the decision to move to Kirby Pines in February, 1989 and entrenched themselves in the activities of Kirby Pines. They placed their church membership at Central Church.

So, what was life like for Juanita, growing up in a small community of West Virginia? Born on October 10, 1916, Juanita was one of nine children. She remembers her childhood as a happy time although times were difficult for the family. Work was scarce but her father was able to find three to four days of work each week on the railroad. Her mother canned all summer and Juanita remembers her favorite was the pickled corn and the sauerkraut available in the winter months. Her mother was a loving and compassionate person, always setting up a table on the back porch and placing food there for the “hobos”. Christmas was always a big event. All nine children received a gift, the girls always getting a doll with “a big, hard head”.

After finishing high school in 1934, Juanita worked briefly in a dime store and a beauty parlor. However, her father insisted she live at home and discouraged her working outside the home.

On April 14, 1938, Juanita married Charles Smith. Charles worked as a presser in a glass factory. West Virginia is well known for its “glass houses” and beautiful glassware. A year later, Juanita gave birth to her only child, Linda. Juanita’s lifetime career centered around being a mother and homemaker.

Today Juanita Smith resides in the Gallery Manor at Kirby Pines. Her husband, Charles, died in 2007. Her daughter, Linda Sprague lives in Memphis in another retirement community. In addition, Juanita has two grandchildren, two great grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. Her grandson Jonathan and his wife Connie, visit Juanita often.

Juanita loves to have company and reminisce about the good times at Kirby Pines. She enjoys all of the entertainment programs that are provided in The Manor. She especially looks forward to the visits of her great-grandchildren from Florida.

Hopefully, we will all remember the important date of October 10, 2018, when the big 102 will be celebrated!

All in all, a life well-lived and remembered.

Greatest Generation Exemplified

The curtain opens: A handsome man dressed in wedding attire enters the stage to marry (for the fourth time!) his stage sweetheart. Ken Lewis is the groom. When he is not actively involved in a skit for the Kirby Pines Ham-ateur Club, Ken is backstage operating the curtains. To those who know Ken, his sense of humor is one of his most endearing qualities.

All is not fun and games, however. Since moving from Collierville to Kirby Pines in 2008, Ken has volunteered to use his management and people skills in various organizations which benefit the residents of Kirby Pines. For example, Ken served one term as President of the Kirby Pines Resident Association and one term on the Advisor’s Committee (now serving as Wing Leader). He was selected as King of Kirby Pines for one year and is currently a member of The Ambassador Group for the Marketing Department. Although he is not actively dancing with the Kirby Pines Line Dancers, he remains with the group in an assisting role.

So, what kind of background produced such a giving person? Like many of his age group, known as the “Greatest Generation”, Ken’s life was shaped by involvement in two wars. With that involvement came the realization of the important things in life. This is Ken’s story:
Kenneth (Ken) Lewis was born on July 11, 1922 in Golden, Colorado. Shortly after, his family moved back to their family ranch in Sweetwater, Texas. The ranch was a beef cattle ranch and Ken earned enough money showing calves in the 4-H Club to pay for three years of college.

Ken graduated from high school in 1940 and enrolled in Texas Tech University. Like most young men at that time, Ken enrolled in the Army Air Corp Reserves. Because of WWII, Ken was called to active duty and spent the next year in flight training. He graduated in 1944 and was ordered to troop carrier units in England, France, and Puerto Rico. Their mission was to re-supply combat troops, tow gliders, drop paratroopers, evacuate the wounded and transport troops. At the end of WWII, Ken returned to Texas Tech and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture.

After graduation, Ken had a three-year career as a county agricultural agent. However, in 1951, he was again called to active duty and served in the US Air Force for two years. Ken says that the most momentous occasion in that assignment was meeting a US Navy nurse, Ensign Jean Sauer, on her first day of duty. The relationship blossomed even though their tour of duties meant both time and distance apart. They were married in 1955 after they were discharged from the Air Force and Navy.
Returning to civilian life, Ken was employed by the National Cottonseed Products Association as a field representative, retiring after 34 years as the Executive Vice President. The business had moved the Lewis family from Dallas, Texas to Memphis in 1969. His work required extensive travel not only in the US, but to the Soviet Union, Europe, Egypt, China, Japan, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and Iran. A world traveler, indeed.

Ken and Jean had two daughters and a son who died in infancy. Jean passed away n 2000. Ken now has three grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and a soon-to-be granddaughter-in-law.

Christ the King Lutheran Church was a cornerstone for the Lewis family. Both Jean and Ken were very active in various organizations in the church. Ken remains an active member there.

A good friend of Ken’s has described him as a good man who is willing to help anyone he can. That pretty well sums up the nature of Ken Lewis.

On pretty days you can find Ken at Fox Meadows Golf Course where, according to him, he mostly shoots his age.

Enjoying Life & Coming Home

Diane Stigall was born April 9, 19 – well, we don’t have to go there – in Memphis, Tennessee, the oldest of three. Her father, Terry Hiram Stigall was an electrician for Memphis, Light, Gas, and Water, and her mother, Marcelle Bobbe Stigall, was a homemaker who eventually went to work for the Corp of Engineers after the kids were grown. Diane attended Central High School in Memphis and after graduation continued her education at Memphis State University.

She was a journalism major and minored in education and history. She worked on the school newspaper, was active in sorority life and was even editor of the yearbook. She spent school breaks working at Sears Crosstown where she came to realize how strange, yet interesting, people can be.

Her sophomore year, a friend was dating a young man who had a friend on the football team. His name was Frank R. Talarico. Frank attended Hope College in Holland, Michigan before being drafted to the Army for two years. He ended up at Memphis State to continue his engineering degree when he was introduced to Diane. The two dated a year and on June 8, 1957, the end of their junior year, they decided to marry.

After graduation, they moved to Herkimer, New York, about 15 miles southeast of Utica. Frank was born in Herkimer and his father built roads and bridges. He took his knowledge to form a family business, named after Frank and his brother, Talson’s Contracting Corporation.

Diane stayed home and raised their daughter, Karen. After two years as a homemaker, Diane spent a year teaching junior high history. She then began studying language arts for the next several years, substitute teaching and raising their second child, Terrance. While in grad school she found completing her Masters would force her to choose a specific field of study, so she opted to continue her education as she decided and became eligible to teach K-12.

After Frank’s father passed, he and his brother continued running the contracting business and in 1980, Diane went to teach English full-time at Herkimer High School. Diane retired in 1995 when Frank’s brother died. Frank continued to run Talson’s. Diane then went to docenting at the Munson Williams Proctor Arts Institute in Utica.

Becoming a docent required training, during which time she gave tours, worked special programs, taught children to appreciate art and helped immigrants staying in refugee centers prepare for citizenship. She found this work quite rewarding and meaningful. Diane was also very active in the Herkimer Garden Club, which she enjoyed for 46 years.

In 2005, Frank retired. Diane took up golf, which Frank already played, and they would spend their winters in Myrtle Beach or Florida. They had done some traveling over the years, and it was a trip to Germany in the early 80s to visit their daughter when Diane got the desire to see the world. The two took trips, but Frank wasn’t as impressed, so Diane and her girlfriends traveled the world while Frank and the other husbands held down their forts.

Frank passed away in 2015, and Diane decided after a year and a half that a four-bedroom house, was too much. She looked at several options, and in 2017 decided to go back to Memphis. Her father had died in 1987, and after “Hurricane Elvis” in 2004, she and her siblings moved their mother. Bobbe Stigall, to Kirby Pines. The upkeep on her house was just too much for an 86-year-old woman, so reluctantly she went, where she happily enjoyed life. Diane’s sister, Cheryl, was married to the Kirby Pines Chaplain, Don Johnson, so it made the transition even easier.

Diane followed in her mother’s footsteps and chose Kirby Pines as her home in June of 2017. She felt Kirby had so much to offer and the people were all very friendly and open. She enjoys the Book Baggers, the Travelers outings and is thinking of checking out the Photo Club.

Her mother passed away in December of 2017, just shy of her 100th birthday, and was loved by everyone. I know Diane was glad to spend her mother’s final months with her and, after getting to know Diane, I also know she will happily enjoy her life at Kirby Pines, too.

A True Icon of Love

Love is defined as an intense feeling for someone or something. The term icon is sometimes used to describe a person who represents a symbol of a particular thing. Put them together and they define Kirby Pines resident, Mary Gullett.

Since moving to Kirby Pines in 2000, Mary Gullett continues nearly a century of caring for others. Her unconditional love, positive attitude and desire to help others make Mary an endearing member of the Kirby Pines family.

Mary Eliza Briggs was born in Ashland, Mississippi in 1920. Being the oldest of the three daughters in the family, Mary was considered a “little mother” to her two younger sisters. Always a good student, Mary graduated from high school as Valedictorian in 1939. Her commencement address was titled “Not The Sunset, But The Dawn”.

Following graduation, Mary’s first job was secretary in the Benton County, Mississippi Welfare Office, the WPA. Mary later graduated from the Memphis School of Commerce certified in business and office management. She worked briefly for Wallace Johnson, Inc. as a hostess for new homes.

In 1941, Mary married Cecil Gullett and became a war bride. Cecil was drafted into the Army but as long as Cecil was stateside, Mary was able to stay with him. However, as with most servicemen, Cecil was sent to Europe for two years. During that time Mary passed a civil service exam and worked as a secretary in the Farm Bureau of Albany, Mississippi. Following his discharge from the Army, Mary and Cecil led busy lives working and traveling whenever the opportunity came. They were able to visit Canada and all the states in the U.S. except Rhode Island, usually in their RV.

When Mary’s son, Larry, was born in 1950, Mary took a leave of absence from work, eventually returning to work as the church pastor’s secretary at Lamar Heights Baptist Church. She retired in 1990 after 45 years of service.

Today, Mary’s family includes not only her son and beloved daughter-in-law, Phyllis, but three grand and three great-grandchildren. Mary is frequently called upon to help with showers and plans for family gatherings.

After Mary’s husband passed away unexpectedly in 1999, Mary made the decision to sell her home in Piperton and move to Kirby Pines. Moving to a retirement community did not include an inactive lifestyle for Mary. Soon after she moved in, she was invited to sit down to dinner with Ernest Green, a widower. They became best friends and together were involved in “all things Kirby” for many years. They were selected as King and Queen for one year.

As Ernest’s health deteriorated, Mary supported him in his care until his passing at age 99. Mary has continued to be involved in all of the entertainment venues at Kirby Pines. She participates as an Ambassador for Marketing activities and performs as one of the Kirby Pines Line Dancers. She also is Director of the Rhythm Band and plays a major role in the Entertainers and Hamateur productions. Mary is frequently called on to decorate the PAC stage and areas for many events. To view Mary’s “office,” open the door by the Memorial Table and see boxes of decorations, neatly packaged and labeled.

Although Mary describes herself as a helper and behind the scenes person, in reality, she would best be described as “Our Girl Friday”. The scripture from the Holy Bible that guides Mary is Proverbs 3:5 – Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

So, if you need something done or need advice, call Mary Gul- lett. If you need assistance with your laundry or just a shoulder to cry on, call Mary Gullett. It is done with LOVE.

A True Match Made in Heaven

Edna Mae (Ellie) Suggs was born September 9, 1934, in Vernon, Alabama. She immediately was moved to Columbus, Mississippi to her grandparents farm. They helped raise her until the age of six. Her father, Cecil Suggs was the Fire Chief in Columbus, who also ran a restaurant with Ellie’s mother, Vurla.

Ellie graduated high school in Columbus and attended The “W”, aka, the Mississippi University for Women, where she earned her teaching credentials. She taught school in Columbus for four years while earning her Masters Degree from Mississippi State. Upon receiving her degree, she was asked to take a teaching job in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Her strong will and can do attitude along with her passion for kids (especially those at risk) landed her the job of Principal and Administrator for the Virginia Beach City School System. And though she loved to teach, she saw the opportunity to have more of an impact on the lives of more children an Administrator.

Samuel Andrew Bates, Jr. was born March 30, 1940, in Seattle, Washington. His father, Samuel Sr., sold industrial plumbing supplies along the Pacific coast for 40 years, and his mother, Anita, maintained the household. Sam graduated from Ballard High School in Seattle and went on to the University of Washington, where he joined a fraternity and focused more on the good times, instead of his studies. After his 3rd year of school, the Cuban Missile Crisis had occurred and the Vietnam War was heating up, so in order to avoid getting drafted by the Army, he enlisted in the Navy.

He began his basics in San Diego and was sent to the Treasure Island School in San Fransisco to study electronics. After about a year he found himself in Cape Canaveral on the Observation Island, a Fleet Ballistic Missile Test Ship, where he was a Navigation Equipment Tech. Due to his substantial amount of electronics training, he was then sent to Pearl Harbor for 2 years to do Submarine Navigation Training and Electronics Training. The next 3 years were spent on survey ships conducting deep water bottom surveys for submarines – half in the Pacific and half in the Atlantic.

He was finally sent for training to Virginia Beach, Virginia, where he met Ellie. They began dating in the spring of 1972 after a faculty party held by a friend of Ellie’s. They had actually met a few days prior at a friend of Sam’s house, who happened to be married to a colleague of Ellie. They were invited to make ice cream and as the evening came to an end, Ellie, who lived down the street, decided to walk home. As she set out, Sam got in his blue VW Bug and headed her way. He waved and tooted his horn as he passed on by. Ellie was no longer impressed. As fate would have it, the two were brought back together and on May 5, 1973, they were married.

Sam then spent 3.5 years on the USS Inchon, an amphibious assault ship where he went up the ranks to become a Command Master Chief Petty Officer. Ellie ended up being the ship’s ombudsman, helping the sailors families, while still running the schools and raising their son, Kenneth. Sam retired from the Navy on May 30, 1982. He got his business degree from George Washington University and and Engineering/ Tech degree from Old Dominion. He continued working with Navy contractors and worked 10 years for a shipyard in Norfolk, but when the Cold War ended, so did the Navy contracts and he was laid off in 1993.

Sam soon found a job at Lockheed Martin in Moorestown, New Jersey, while Ellie stayed back to finish her obligations and sell the house in Virginia. She retired in 1996, and she and Ken moved north. Sam officially retired in 2006.

Over the years they had two separate acquaintances, one in Virginia and the other in New Jersey that mentioned Kirby Pines to them. Each had family living at Kirby that said it was a wonderful place to live. They received information in the mail and had spoken with Marketing, who is always quite persuasive.

In September of 2012, they decided to stop at Kirby Pines on the way to visit family in Texas and were put up in one of the guest rooms. Two days later, Ellie was getting her hair done, while Sam signed the paperwork. They have been happy here ever since.

Ellie’s uncle made all the arrangements and helped them move in with a crew he hired. With Ellie in her house coat watching her new home come together, 3 women came knocking, invited her to dinner and asked if they needed anything – she knew they were home.

Ellie is a firm believer that the Lord has guided them both through life and that opportunities have always come as a blessing. We are blessed that He brought this lovely couple to Kirby Pines.