RICHMOND — Lakewood Manor Baptist Retirement Community, operated by Virginia Baptist Homes, will celebrate its 30 year anniversary on Oct. 21.
The Richmond Baptist Association's dream in 1963 of having a Richmond retirement community has served thousands of residents over the past 30 years. Today, Lakewood Manor is home to nearly 500 residents.
Four residents — Edna Thomas, Ida Crowder and Mr. and Mrs. Hugh T. Busey — who moved to Lakewood Manor 30 years ago continue to be numbered among the Lakewood family.
Albert E. Simms, who had previously served as a trustee of Virginia Baptist Homes, was the founding administrator of Lakewood Manor. His wife, Helen, worked alongside him for several years. The Simmses made Lakewood their home in 1995. He died in 2003. She continues to be involved in life at Lakewood.
Construction began in 1975 and buildings A and B were completed in 1977. Buildings C, D and E along with the health care center were finished in 1978. The administration building, housing offices, a reception area, bank, beauty parlor, arts and crafts area, dining hall, health care center, chapel and multi-purpose room was completed in 1978.
Due to the increased need, the health care center was expanded in 1984, and in 1997 the Rose Building providing assisted living services was completed.
In 2005, the construction of 14 cottages and 30 villa apartments increased the number of residences on the campus. A new health services building, with all private residences, was completed in spring 2007.
The original health services building was transformed into a community center in April 2008. The center includes the wellness center, library, treasure chest, woodworking shop, card room, billiards room, beauty shop, convenience store and programming center.