When you think of a senior prom, you don’t usually picture walkers and wheelchairs—but that’s exactly what made the prom at Charter Senior Living in White House so special.

The Assisted Living and Memory Care facility, which opened in July 2024, hosted its very first Senior Prom for residents and their families on May 30. Tammy Wrenn, the facility’s Activities Director, smiled as she recounted stories from the unforgettable night. She and Chris Wilson, of Legacy Therapy, who also works with the residents, came up with the idea back in February. Together, they planned an event that would feel truly meaningful and memorable.

“We wanted it elevated to their level,” Tammy said, emphasizing the elegance and beauty of the evening. Volunteers helped pamper the ladies with fresh manicures and styled hair—our very own Sarah Ricciardi even volunteered as a makeup artist. Gorgeous gowns and sequined blouses were donated by The Hope Center and Goodwill, dressing the residents to the nines. Then, one by one, they walked a red carpet lined with cheering friends and family before entering the dance.

The menu matched the occasion, with Prime Rib and all the fixings capping off the night’s decadence.

Tammy shared that at first, some residents were hesitant about attending. A few planned just to stop by or watch from the sidelines. But as the planning progressed and excitement grew, most chose to join the fun. The oldest resident in attendance was 97!

Local musician Con Raymer, a regular performer at the facility, provided the entertainment, playing tunes from the 1950s and ’60s along with crowd favorites like “Sweet Caroline” and “Rocky Top.”

“Out of all the places I’ve played music, and the people I’ve played music for, the residents of Charter—who I now call friends—have been the greatest blessing I’ve known,” Con shared. One of his favorite moments from the night was watching Mr. Phillip and Miss Daisy share a few tender dances. He also loved seeing Miss Judy “kicking up her heels” to the rock songs.

From the Memory Care area, Louie Kerr and Patricia “Patty” Thoms were crowned Prom King and Queen. On the Assisted Living side, sweethearts Lanny and Gale Wilkinson were honored as King and Queen. The couple, who are married, revealed they never got to attend their high school prom—making this night extra meaningful. And the best part? They’ll get to do it all over again next year at Charter’s second annual Senior Prom.

For more information on Charter Senior Living, visit here.