Older Americans Day celebrates Rockwall County seniors who serve our community

The theme for this year’s event – “Get into the Act” – focused on honoring seniors who have been proactive in taking charge of their health, getting involved in their community and making a positive impact on the lives of others. Those in attendance welcomed a few special guest speakers: County Commissioner Dennis Bailey, Royse City Mayor Janet Nichol and Rockwall Mayor Jim Pruitt, who proclaimed the month of May 2015 as Older Americans Month in the City of Rockwall.
“I was looking at the list of the people that we’re honoring today and it reads as a who’s who of Rockwall County,” Pruitt said. “We’re so blessed not only with what the Lord has given us in facilities, but in the people who run these places who have it truly in their hearts to help others.”

Margie VerHagen, executive director of Meals On Wheels Senior Services of Rockwall County, also took the opportunity to express her gratitude for all those who help deliver meals to the county’s elderly and disabled.

“We are so thankful for the countless hours of their own time that our seniors donate to help make a change in our community,” said VerHagen.

This year’s honorees receiving recognition for their outstanding service to the community included:

Marilynn Watkins

Barbara White

Judy Holder

Lynda Haygood

Anita Hudson

Jo Leggett

Jean Dallas

Rockwall Police Chief Mark Moeller 

Mary Jo Vicknair

Forest Murley Jr.

Larry Rynor

Hanlie & Koot Engelbrecht

Bob Chilton

Marilynn Hanus

Lynda Banks

John Vance 

Barbara Montgomery

Jean Gustafon

Toyota of Rockwall

National Charity League

Sandy Hansen

Marilynn Caldwell

Mary Lou Obraitis

Deloris Ballard

Susan Laszynski

Genevieve St. Clair 

David Bevill

Ernest Kimmons

Gary McCallister

Randy Earl Parks

 Paula Lively

Leigh Plagens

Stanley B. Scott, Jr.  

Since 1963, communities throughout the country have celebrated Older Americans in the month of May. Rockwall County has held the celebration honoring its seniors, programs and volunteers for the past 11 years.

The occasion also marked the 50^th anniversary of the Older Americans Act signed in 1965 by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson to provide a nationwide aging services network and funding to help older adults live independently with dignity for as long as possible.

Story and photos by Austin Wells, Blue Ribbon News reporter. 

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