Kirby Pines Retirement Community | The Pinecone

Veteran’s Day is the time to recognize and honor those that have served their country in the various branches of the armed forces. It annually falls on November 11, the anniversary of the signing of the armistice, which ended the World War I hostilities between the Allied nations and Germany in 1918. At Kirby Pines, we have many residents and employees who have served, or had spouses who sacrificed so much for the freedoms we enjoy today. Our front cover features, Caroline Thomas, at Veterans Plaza located in Overton Park, midtown Memphis. Caroline was a member of the prestigious 101st Airborne Division of the US Army. Her experience as a paratrooper included not only many flights, but 325 jumps with a parachute. Later on, she would rappel from a helicopter 270 times WITHOUT a parachute. Caroline served eight years, receivingmanymedals andmeritorious badges INSIDE THIS MONTH’S PINECONE As autumn transforms the lush 60-acre grounds of Kirby Pines into a beautiful tapestry of crimson, gold, and amber, a familiar warmth settles over our community. Along with crisp mornings and cozy afternoons, the season brings Thanksgiving, a time to reflect on the blessings of family, friendship and the place we call home. At Kirby Pines LifeCare Community, Thanksgiving is more than a traditional feast. It is a heartfelt celebration of the connections, kindness, and countless blessings that make our community so special. A Tradition of Togetherness Here, togetherness is a way of life. Throughout Thanksgiving week, residents, families, and team members gather to share delicious, chef-prepared holiday meals and enjoy the laughter and conversation that make the season memorable. From roasted turkey and homemade dressing to sweet potatoes and pecan pie, the holiday table is filled with familiar favorites. Yet the greatest part of the celebration is the fellowship shared around it. “Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and friendship turns a community into a family.” Counting Our Blessings Thanksgiving offers a meaningful opportunity to pause and appreciate what matters most. At Kirby Pines, one blessing stands out above all: community. Residents find lifelong friendships, A Season of Gratitude at Kirby Pines caring team members who make each day brighter, and the peace of mind that comes with LifeCare living. From fitness classes and nature walks to musical performances and creative activities, there are countless ways to stay active, connected, and engaged. The Spirit of Giving The spirit of Thanksgiving extends beyond our own tables. Each year, our residents and staff share their blessings through charitable outreach, food drives, and everyday acts of kindness. These thoughtful gestures reflect the caring spirit of our community and help spread goodwill throughout the greater Memphis area. WarmWishes fromOur Family to Yours As we gather to give thanks, we extend our warmest wishes to our residents, their families, and our dedicated team members. May your Thanksgiving be filled with joy, good health, cherished memories, and the warmth of those you hold dear. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Kirby Pines! Michael J. Brown, Jr. Executive Director, Kirby Pines & Air Force Veteran • 2 • The Pinecone | November 2026 Caroline Thomas US Army Veteran. Here rappelling from a helicopter. GivingThanks to Our Veterans at Kirby Pines BOARD OF DIRECTORS S Dr. James Latimer, Chairman Mr. Rudy Herzke, President Mr. Larry Braughton Mr. Bob Dalhoff Mr. Jim Ethridge Ms. Linda Harrington Ms. Mary Ann Hodges Mr. Rusty Linkous Mr. Brian Lowery RCA STAFF Charlie Trammell President, RCA Michélle Vincent Executive Vice President, RCA Tim Cox Senior Vice President of Finance, RCA Michael Kelly Vice President of Finance, RCA KIRBY PINES STAFF Michael Brown Executive Director, Kirby Pines Mike Abutineh, M.D. Medical Director Deniece Caldwell Healthcare Administrator Ann Marie Bishop Director of Accounting Harold Morris Director of Culinary Mike Rayder Director of Grounds & Landscaping Kayla Holland Director of Hospitality & Life Enhancement Trudy Schenkenberger Director of Human Resources Chuck Neeley Director of Maintenance Anna Bradford Director of Nursing This magazine is produced by RCA 6465 N. Quail Hollow Rd., Suite 400 Memphis, TN 38120, 901-794-2598 Electronic version of The Pinecone is available at www.kirbypines.com from the US Army, including the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Sharp Shooter Medal and her Parachute and Air Assault Wings . Our back cover showcases some of our garden home veterans, who are featured on page 7 in this month’s Resident Spotlight. We would like to thank all of veterans for their service and for representing Kirby Pines and the USA.