Fairvern Nursing Home was originally the site of the Huntsville Memorial Hospital, which opened in 1950 with 26 beds. By 1977 the hospital boasted 65 beds and a staff of 24 qualified nurses. Five years later on Aug. 23 1982, the first staff of Fairvern received their orientation. Today some of those staff members still remain.

At Thursday’s 25th anniversary celebration Brenda Greer, now the director of resident care, Jackie Rehn, activity aide and Joyce Vicare, registered practical nurse, received gifts of appreciation from Fairvern administrator Barry Lockhart. Also celebrating 25 years but not present at the ceremony are Sue Denney, dietary aide and Lynn Janke, registered practical nurse.

The Friends of Fairvern are a group of committed volunteers made up of family, friends and community members who provide a valuable service to the home and its residents. The Friends are a registered charitable organization and have been  associated with Fairvern since it opened in 1982.

The volunteers assist staff to provide many of the programs that enhance the residents’ quality of life. They also provide support through their fundraising events.

Many volunteers became involved with Fairvern in the beginning and they too received gifts of appreciation from Wendy Earl, Fairvern’s life enrichment co-ordinator.

There was considerable levity when Earl presented a gift to  volunteer and past board member Lloyd Henry, who was wearing a white suit.

“I’ve seen you in every kind of suit,” said Earl, then hurriedly added with a blush, “Well, perhaps not every one.”

Peggy Hern also drew chuckles when she remarked that she had a longer association with the former hospital building than that of Mayor Claude Doughty, a former dentist who had earlier recalled having hospital privileges there.

“I’ve both lost and gained here,” she said. “I lost my appendix and gained three children.”

Other volunteers receiving 25-year service gifts were Helen Austin, Joy McCaskill, Kathleen Mitchell and Anke Snell. “(Snell) makes the best lemon pies in the world,” said Earl.

Providing care to hundreds of residents during the past 25 years, Fairvern has remained a vital part of the community.  Dedicated and hardworking staff with a commitment to excellence care for up to 76 residents and make Fairvern what it is today: a home with heart and soul.