A Farewell to Remember: Mathison Residents Send Roland Off with Love and Pride

Memorial Day has always been a meaningful occasion at Mathison Retirement Community — a time to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. But this year’s Flag Ceremony held a special kind of emotion that touched every heart.

Roland Sims, the son of our beloved team members Scott and Desiree Sims, has long dreamed of becoming a United States Marine. After signing up out of high school, he faced a frustrating last-minute delay due to paperwork — a pause that tested his patience and stirred deep emotions within his family.

But in hindsight, it seems that delay was divinely timed.

Just before our Memorial Day ceremony, Roland received word from his recruiter that he would be leaving that very day — immediately after the ceremony. Staff Sergeant Swanigan and Sergeant Estaverne would attend the flag ceremony and then accompany him to board the bus to Parris Island, South Carolina, where his journey would officially begin.

As the final note of the ceremony echoed into the air, we shared Roland’s news with the residents. The moment turned from one of remembrance to one of profound unity and hope. With teary eyes and heartfelt applause, our residents rallied around Roland and his family — offering hugs, prayers, and words of encouragement.

What could have been just another departure quietly folded into a weekday became something unforgettable: a sacred sendoff, woven with love, respect, and shared emotion.

Many of our residents spoke of feeling personally connected to Roland — some recalling their own military service, others remembering the loved ones they once sent off in uniform. His story had already become part of our community, and now, so had he.

As Roland embraced his parents and stepped forward into a new chapter, the residents of Mathison stood behind him — not only in that moment, but in the days and months to come. They vowed to follow his journey, write to him, pray for him, and cheer him on every step of the way.

We believe Roland’s delayed departure wasn’t just paperwork — it was purpose. It allowed our community to become part of something greater. And it gave Roland a sendoff worthy of a hero.

God’s timing is always perfect. And here at Mathison, so is the love we share for those who serve.