Zelda Johnson

As a resident of the Lorien Columbia senior living community, Zelda Johnson exemplifies what it takes to live life with a beauty that inspires everyone around her: kindness, humility, empathy and caring. She’s an avid crafter who enjoys needlepoint, hand-made quilting and coloring. She invites others to join these activities so they can experience the same joy through creativity and companionship.

Mrs. Johnson shares her philosophy with residents frequently to encourage them. She says to never sit still. Just keep moving, even when you think you can’t. She enjoys shopping with her daughter, who lives locally, and staying in touch with her son, who lives in North Carolina. She’s built close friendships at Lorien, where they look out for one another, pick up items at the store for each other, and lend a hand with difficult tasks. Mrs. Johnson believes in helping people whenever you can.

Yvonne Ruff

The Winter Growth’s Assisted Living Community in Columbia selected Yvonne Ruff because of the happiness she brings everyone around her. She’s quick to offer praise to others in her community and to show her appreciation for the kind actions of others. When other residents may be feeling down or seemingly shy, she welcomes them to join her in community activities, such as exercise classes, coloring and listening to music together. 

Mrs. Ruff jokes that she is aging backwards, because the more she does, the younger she feels. She stays on top of current fashions, with help from her grandchildren, and remains connected to her earlier years with collages she makes from photos, newspaper and magazines. Themes of her collages include her childhood in the countryside of Newville, Pa., and the many years she lived in Ocean City. She still stays in touch with her college classmates and talks often with her four children — two daughters in Maryland and two sons in Texas. Her advice to others is simple but powerful: Be grateful and be kind … and keep busy.