Monday, June 17, 2019, was a day of remembrance and honor at Wesley Village’s Partridge-Tippett Nursing Facility as we dedicated the new Serenity Garden in memory of Henry C. Johnson. Over 70 residents, staff, family, and friends of Mr. Johnson gathered under a tent in the beautifully renovated courtyard for the dedication ceremony. The backdrop was lush green grass, beautiful annuals and perennials, and the centerpiece 10-foot tall clock. Beneath the clock are the words of the Serenity Prayer: God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
Among those in attendance to pay tribute to Mr. Johnson were United Methodist Homes President and CEO, Brian Picchini, the Chairman of our Foundation Board, Ed Betz and the Wesley Village Chaplain, Gene Sperazza. In addition to these staff members, Tom Evansew, a lifelong friend of Henry C. Johnson, shared two poems that really captured Henry’s spirit and his love of clocks. James Keller, Mayor of Luzerne, Henry’s hometown, shared stories about Henry and his family, and Carol Coleman and Tanya Olaviany spoke about Mr. Johnson’s generosity and kindness.
Following the ceremony, guests gathered in the dining room to share food and fellowship while listening to Mark Pall play the piano. A video of Henry C. Johnson was playing in the Activities Room and guests sat and listened to Mr. Johnson’s description of life in Luzerne when he was young.
Henry C. Johnson generously donated funds to completely renovate the courtyard in the Partridge-Tippett Nursing Facility, and on nice days, our residents and their families can be seen enjoying the beautifully landscaped space. The wheelchair-accessible swing remains in the courtyard and tables with umbrellas have been added, along with benches where residents and families can gather.
The United Methodist Homes community is truly grateful to Henry C. Johnson and all of our donors who generously give to United Methodist Homes. Your gifts help us provide new programs and state-of-the-art services to our residents to ensure the highest quality of care. To make a donation, visit us online at www.unitedmethodisthomes.org/giving.