“I’ve lived a good life,” says Good Shepherd resident Faye Hallum, who recently celebrated her milestone 100th birthday. Born and raised in a small rural town halfway between Little Rock and Memphis, she is no stranger to hard work. In fact, she has lived through some of history’s leanest times.
She vividly remembers growing up on simple, hearty meals of beans, potatoes, salt pork, and whatever fresh vegetables her family could cultivate from the land. To get through the harsh winter months, her mother would can their garden harvests. It is because of this resourcefulness and dedication, she holds her mother in high regard. To Faye, her mother is a true hero.
Keeping Hands and Heart Busy
Faye learned to crochet as a young girl and passionately continues the craft to this day. Though her eyesight has softened with age, she hasn’t let that slow her down; instead, she sticks to a familiar stitch and pattern, relying on the memory in her fingertips to guide her. Incredibly generous with her talents, she crochets and gifts a small afghan to a fellow Good Shepherd resident every single month, not to mention the countless blankets she has made for family and friends over the years.
A Bright New Chapter at Good Shepherd Community
Having lived a long, full life, Faye is deeply grateful to maintain her independence and credits her vibrant longevity, in part, to her lifestyle at Good Shepherd. After 43 years of a beautiful marriage, she was widowed. Over time, she grew anxious living alone in a large house at the end of the street and found it difficult to sleep at night. While she understandably mourned the loss of her husband, her home, and her lifelong neighbors, moving to Good Shepherd opened a bright new chapter.
She notes that the greatest blessing at Good Shepherd has been the community itself, finding joy in being surrounded by a circle of new friends. She also relishes being free from the burdens of home maintenance, and because she now lives much closer to her family, they can easily involve her in their daily lives. “They no longer have to make a 45-minute drive just to check on me,” she shares.
Reflecting on her new home, Faye smiles and says, “I feel safe here.”
