Where She’s Meant to Be: A Son’s Tribute to Life at Blakehurst
For Father Jack Dennis, there’s peace in knowing his 99-year-old mother is happy, active, and safe at Blakehurst, Towson, Md.’s premier senior living community. “I go to bed at night knowing she’s safe,” he says. “She’s surrounded by friends and people who know her and truly care about her.”
The Dennis family story at Blakehurst began long before his mother walked through the doors. Mary Helen Dennis and her husband, Dr. Dennis, had friends living there and had long decided it would be their retirement destination. “There was no other option but Blakehurst,” she recalls. Though her children didn’t influence the decision, they’ve since become grateful participants in her daily life there.
Father Jack, who serves as a priest at Holy Trinity Parish in Washington, D.C., is especially thankful for the security and community his mother has found. Despite his demanding role in Georgetown, he talks to her every morning and night and visits often.
Though the Dennises were set on Blakehurst, Mrs. Dennis still had some hesitation at first about the timing. “She didn’t feel completely ready to make the move — it’s a big change,” he says. “But once she moved in, she never looked back. She’s been happy there since day one.”
Good Friends
Her happiness is rooted in the relationships and routines she’s developed over the past 15 years. “She’s made new friends, even after my dad passed away,” Father Jack shares. “At 99, you don’t have many original friends left. But she eats with people four or five nights a week, plays bridge and Rummikub, gets her hair done every week, exercises, and goes to concerts and bingo.”
Her fellow residents are thoughtful and kind—some even brought special playing cards with large print so she could continue enjoying her favorite games despite declining eyesight. “They didn’t say anything about it,” Father Jack explains. “The helpful cards just appeared one day because they wanted her to be able to keep playing with them.”
Exceptional Staff
Mrs. Dennis also appreciates the role Blakehurst’s exceptional staff play in her happiness. “The personnel are number one. Especially the front desk staff. They’re so friendly — it’s good to have that feeling of nurturing and caring as I come and go.” She emphasizes the warmth of the entire community, saying simply, “I am happy, and that’s what makes my kids happy.”
Father Jack agrees wholeheartedly. He’s built friendships with the team and many of his mother’s neighbors. “They couldn’t be more accommodating,” he says. “Even when I’ve been worried late at night and couldn’t reach her, the team has always responded quickly and kindly. She’s always been fine—just too busy to answer.”
He’s also spent time staying at Blakehurst himself, especially after his father passed. “I could have stayed elsewhere in Baltimore, but I stayed with her. We’d eat meals together, I’d use the gym, and I got to experience how special this community really is.”
A Perfect Home, but Not a ‘Home’
Blakehurst has become more than just a place to live—it’s become a deeply rooted part of their family. Whether it’s enjoying meals together, attending events, or simply sharing everyday moments, the sense of connection runs deep. “It’s not an old-fashioned ‘home’ for seniors — my mom really dislikes that word. She’s not in a ‘home,’” Father Jack notes. “Blakehurst is a vibrant, vital community. And a very loving one at that.”
From a warm greeting at the front desk to thoughtful companions and supportive staff, Blakehurst offers everything his mother needs—and more. “She’s happy, she’s strong, and she’s thriving,” he says. “She’s exactly where she’s meant to be.”
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