Thank You Note
Mr. & Mrs. Richard H. Jackson
September 1, 2026
Riverside Senior Living
1009 Line Street NE
Decatur, AL 35601
Dear Brenda,
We would like to express our sincere appreciation to you and the entire kitchen staff at Riverside Senior Living for the kindness, friendliness, and care you showed us during our visit with our Aunt Ruth Keaty.
The meals were wonderful, and the kitchen staff consistently made us feel welcomed. We would especially like to recognize Ester, who went above and beyond to ensure that my wife and I were served delicious meals. More importantly, we had the opportunity to witness firsthand her genuine caring attitude toward the residents.
It was clear that the kitchen staff treated the residents with compassion, dignity, and respect, as though they were members of their own family. That level of care does not go unnoticed, and it makes a meaningful difference in the lives of the residents and their families.
Your facility and its dedicated staff are an important part of what makes Riverside Senior Living such a special place. Please share our heartfelt thanks with the kitchen team, and especially with Ester, for all that you do each day.
With sincere appreciation,
Rich and Cindy Jackson
Ruth Keaty
“A Community Steeped In History”
Written By Monica Parker
As old as the city itself, is the origin story for Riverside Senior Living. This community is a shining star that sits just off the banks of Decatur’s oldest landmark. It was in 1817, a ferry crossing stretching the span of the Tennessee River, that Rhodes Ferry Landing was born. But of course, it was Commodore Stephen Decatur for which our beloved city is now named.
In 1923, the building which still stands at 210 Wilson Street, Northeast, the city’s first school, Riverside High, was built. For forty-eight years, this sentinel served to house both a high school and an elementary school. Nowadays, the former school building houses some of its students.
In 2008, Decatur native, Ms. June Hall purchased the site in a joint venture with her now late husband, Steven Hall, transforming the place into what many now call home. Riverside Senior Living boasts a ninety apartment retirement community with forty-three of those apartments being located in the old school building.
Just as the halls were once filled with the city’s youngsters, the building still sings with the laughter of those who are still young at heart. Free of the hassles of home ownership, residents enjoy leisure time to its fullest with friends. Then, when extra care is needed, at whatever the stage, the nurses and staff of Decatur Home Care continue to extend your independence, while providing the best quality of life, for the rest of your life.
When speaking recently to a resident about Riverside, Ms. Joyce had the following to say. “I had absolutely no problem deciding where to spend my senior years.” You see, Ms. Joyce was a Decatur resident that moved to North Carolina to be closer to family after her husband passed. When thinking back to living alone there, without any activities or people to talk to, she said, “that’s not how I want to spend the rest of my life” and “I knew immediately where I wanted to come; Riverside is where I wanted to live.” And living is exactly what she’s doing. Joyce can be seen in town, at Walmart, at church, exercise class, or staying in, playing bingo, working on a puzzle, or sitting out on “her patio” as she calls one of the outdoor seating areas, reading a book.
This writer asked two other residents, Ms. Donna Graham (77) and Ms. Gina Sharra (60), to share their thoughts about Riverside. The two ladies, mother and daughter, moved to Riverside together in May of last year. One said almost immediately, “I love the atmosphere.” They spoke of their love for the choices they were given. “There are so many things to choose whether to do or not do”, feeling freedom in the choice to do as they pleased. Gina also spoke of the convenience of only having one bill each month, that all their expenses were combined into. No more hassle with monthly budgeting to cover everything; one price, one check, that’s it.
No gathering of residents would be complete without resident author, Mr. Hollis Arban (86), who can always be found looking for a game of checkers with one of “the fellas,” as he calls them. Mr. Arban’s charming personality has helped him make fast friends with many others at Riverside. There are great tales to hear when “the fellas” are gathered together sharing stories. You may hear Mr. Hollis recount his days at NASA, a story from the classroom while teaching, or even a tidbit about one of the books he’s written. Yes, they can be found for sale on Amazon.
One never knows the person they may encounter when they become a resident of the community. But one thing is certain, Riverside will always be more of a family than simply a place to live.
Halloween 2025 at Riverside Senior Living
At Riverside Senior Living, we believe every day is an opportunity for connection, joy, and laughter — even when our residents prefer the comfort of their own apartments. Whether someone isn’t feeling their best or simply enjoys quieter surroundings, our team makes sure they never miss out on the fun.
In October, our hallways came alive with one of our most loved traditions — the Riverside Halloween Parade! Staff and residents dressed up in creative costumes and rolled through the community spreading smiles, treats, and music. For those who didn’t feel up to joining the crowd, the celebration came right to their doors.
Residents waved from their apartments, accepted candy and laughter, and felt included in every moment. It’s small gestures like these that make Riverside feel like home — a place where community isn’t just an activity on the calendar, but a way of life.
At Riverside, we believe wellness extends beyond physical health. Staying connected, feeling seen, and sharing joy are just as important. That’s why, whenever a resident can’t come to the activity room, we bring the activity room to them.
Because at Riverside Senior Living, every resident is part of the celebration — every day of the year.
As Summer Transitions Into Fall
Transitioning into Fall at Riverside Senior Living
As the summer heat gives way to the crisp, colorful days of fall, it’s the perfect time for seniors at Riverside Senior Living to embrace the change of season with comfort and joy. Here are a few simple tips to make the transition smooth and enjoyable:
1. Refresh Your Wardrobe
Swap out light summer clothes for cozy sweaters and layers. Having a warm jacket handy makes it easy to enjoy a stroll by the river or a visit to Rhodes Ferry Park.
2. Savor Seasonal Flavors
Fall brings delicious foods like apples, sweet potatoes, and hearty soups. Look forward to Chef Chris’s seasonal dishes in the dining room—he knows how to bring the flavors of autumn to your plate.
3. Stay Active Indoors and Out
Cooler weather is perfect for walks, but fall also means more indoor fun. Gentle stretching, puzzles, or crafting are great ways to keep moving and engaged.
4. Brighten Your Space
Add a touch of fall décor to your apartment—small pumpkins, autumn leaves, or a cozy throw can make your space feel warm and festive.
5. Stay Connected
The season ahead is full of activities, celebrations, and community gatherings. Make sure you check in with Rose, our Activities Director, for upcoming activities designed to keep everyone smiling and connected.
At Riverside Senior Living, fall is about enjoying the beauty of the season while creating new memories with friends and neighbors. Here’s to a wonderful autumn together!
Congratulations to Walter Thomas, September 2025 Employee of the Month
Walter Thomas Named Employee of the Month – September
Walter Thomas has been selected as September’s Employee of the Month. Though he’s one of the newer members of our kitchen staff, Walter has quickly proven himself to be an invaluable part of the team. He’s always ready to jump in wherever needed, lending a hand with enthusiasm and dedication.
Walter’s easy-going nature and positive attitude have made him a natural fit within our community, earning the respect and friendship of both staff and residents. The residents especially appreciate his willingness to help and his warm, friendly personality.
For all these reasons, Walter was an easy and well-deserved choice for September’s Employee of the Month. Congratulations, Walter!
Miss Riverside 2025
Miss Riverside 2025 was a resounding success, with our winners expressing genuine surprise. Congratulations are in order for our Miss Congeniality, Ms. Virginia Thornton, our 1st Runner Up, Ms. Joyce Brown, and our newly crowned 2025 Miss Riverside, Ms. Betty Sims. We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this special day a reality, including the families who supported our winners, our staff, and Monica, who skillfully designed our backdrop.
