As Elizabethtown natives, Gary and Debbie Morris were very familiar with Masonic Village at Elizabethtown. Yet, little did they know the admired community would be called retirement home in the summer of 2022.
Since living in their adored cottage, the Morrises have not only comfortably settled in, but experienced great peace of mind. The couple can enjoy the excitement of campus activities, establish friendships and explore Masonic Village amenities, all while feeling a new sense of security.
“It is great that we did not have to change anything from our previous lives,” Gary said. “But now we don’t have to worry about things like we used to — it’s refreshing.”
A few days after settling in, the couple had noticed a few stains on the siding of their new home. Instead of worrying about how to get it cleaned, Gary simply called maintenance staff, who visited a day later to take care of the problem.
“They don’t wait for something to break,” Gary said. “If they see wear, they replace it right away.”
Before moving to Masonic Village, Gary and Debbie wanted to wait for the “perfect” retirement living home. However, when the couple was approached about an available cottage nestled in a friendly cul-de-sac, they felt encouraged to finalize their decision.
“A close friend of mine once said, ‘When you come to making the decision to move, it is better to be 10 years early than 10 minutes too late,’ and I am thankful this stuck with me during this process,” Gary said.
Although the couple had an organized list of wants for their future home, they realized their cottage at Masonic Village was everything they ever needed.
“If you wait until you feel ready, you might not get exactly what you need,” Debbie said.
Since moving, the couple have become active participants on campus through weekly activities, such as cornhole Mondays and pickleball Tuesdays. They are thankful for the monthly social gatherings held on their street, as it has allowed them to feel a strong sense of community in their neighborhood.
“You are not forced into anything here, but there are so many opportunities to be a part of activities,” Debbie said. “You will not find the kind of environment at Masonic Village anywhere else.”
Both residents have discovered unique spots on campus that they consider one of a kind. Gary particularly enjoys the view while relaxing on a bench near the Masonic Village Farm Market, which he regularly visited as a child. For Debbie, it is the cozy nooks found within Grand Lodge Hall, where she often indulges in a book or two.
“When we moved here, we were advised, ‘Go out and enjoy all that is offered while you can,’ which we strongly agree with,” Gary said.
Gary and Debbie are thankful their new home allows them to continue their active lifestyles and socialize as much as possible. The couple feels comfortable knowing they are immersed in a community with individuals experiencing the same life happenings as them.
When interacting with prospective residents, the couple urges, “Don’t wait! Just get your name on the list.”
For the Morrises, Masonic Village at Elizabethtown has become the perfect place for them to continue living the life they have beautifully built together.
About the author: Camdyn Lehman is a public relations associate at Masonic Villages. She is majoring in business administration and minoring in marketing at Eastern University.
