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Architecturally designed for people suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementias, the John McClure Snook Memory Care Community offers wonderful activities and excellent care. Pictured at a Mother’s Day celebration are from left Tommy Boothe, his mom Ruby Boothe, and Patti Miller, Snook’s activity director.

The John McClure Snook Center, a state-of-the-art memory-care community of Mercy Medical, celebrated Mother’s Day with a special lunch and live music by volunteer and pianist Ted Donley. The Snook Center is well known for its beautiful and spacious community areas including its activity room, outside courtyards and promenade designed in yesteryear memorabilia. But families agree its mission and staff are what make the place special.

At age 88, Ruby Boothe moved in more than six months ago to the Snook Center. She had been a lifelong resident of Elba, Ala until she relocated to Fairhope to be with her family. She raised two sons with her husband on their farm. Both sons earned doctorial degrees and eventually retired to the Gulf Coast. Her youngest son Tommy Boothe, who was a mathematician and college president, retired to Fairhope, Alabama and helped move his mom to the area.

“I wish we had moved Mom sooner. We no longer could provide the care she needed at our house. We talked to many people but in the end, we chose the Snook Center for Mom. It has been beyond our expectation. Mom has been so happy here. She has many friends and we’ve adopted her special friends. This is our family now. The facility is fantastic and the people who work here are better than the place. There is no question that Mom is loved here,” explained Tommy Boothe.

Old favorite songs like the Tennessee Waltz put attendees in the mood to reminisce great times while enjoying wonderful food. The ladies received wrist corsages to celebrate their special day.

Licensed and certified by the State of Alabama, the John McClure Snook Center is a 64-bed, 30,500-sq. ft. regional facility, architecturally designed for memory-impaired residents. The centered opened in early 2004 and has four sections that consist of 16 bedroom and bath combinations with a central living, dining, and kitchen area plus a secure, outdoor courtyard.

Project Lifesaver, an Adult Day Program, memory care screening, residency and respite are available at the John McClure Snook Memory Care Community. For more information about the Snook Center call 251.625.2555, or toll free, 888.889.7386 or go online at www.mercymedical.com/Snook.