Each year, the Who’s Who in Tennessee Nursing Homes
program recognizes the lifetime achievements of exceptional men and women
living in the state’s long-term care facilities. The 139 honorees for 2011
have shared amazing stories of courage, valor, compassion and strength.
From musicians and military heroes to preachers and
political activists, this year’s Who’s Who class embodies the theme,
“American Classics.” The list includes William Archer, a trumpeter and
comedian who played at resorts and clubs in New York; Tutt Bradford, a
newspaper publisher; Harris Houston, a school teacher who was active with
the Tennessee Education Association; William Jakes, who worked on Pit Road
for Richard Petty; Sarah Maxine Nicks, the first Miss Tennessee; and W.S.
Waters, who served in both the U.S. Army and Navy.
“Each year, long-term care facilities across the state
nominate exceptional men and women for Who’s Who in Tennessee Nursing
Homes,” said THCA Executive Director Jesse Samples. “These patients have
made a difference through their contributions to their families, churches,
communities and occupations. They have shaped our history, and it is a
privilege to honor them as ‘American Classics.’”
This year’s winners, representing 103 THCA member
facilities, received recognition certificates during National Nursing Home
Week, May 8-14. Since 1983, more than 1,600 nursing home patients have been
honored.
Here are the stories of these American Classics.