North Austin Senior Living Stories: A Veteran and a Former Educator

We have two very special residents here in our north Austin senior living community: Rodney and Georgene. They have shared their unique life journeys with the residents and caregivers at Tech Ridge Oaks. We thought we’d share them with you, too.

Meet Rodney, a True Austinite

Tech Ridge Oaks was delighted to celebrate Rodney’s 80th birthday with him recently. As a man of music, service, learning, and adventure, he is a true Austinite at heart.

Rodney was born and raised in Austin, and his life has been marked by a love of music and a thirst for knowledge. In his youth, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. Despite being destined for the jungles of Vietnam, Rodney’s administrative skills redirected him to West Berlin, Germany, where he served his country with distinction.

Rodney’s passion for music was ignited in the 1960s, and he quickly found himself immersed in the colorful world of rhythm and blues. Influenced by legends such as B.B. King, James Brown, and Little Junior Parker, Rodney’s love for music became integral to his identity. A close friend, who was the first white man to play in the chitlin’ circuit, introduced Rodney to the vibrant world of live music. Rodney has ardently supported this passion ever since.

In addition to having an adventurous spirit and love for music, Rodney dedicated himself to academia. A proud University of Texas at Austin graduate, he earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and geography, demonstrating his intellectual curiosity. Rodney’s diverse career path led him to excel as a salesman and a chemist. He even spent time working as a cowboy “for fun and for money,” he shared.

Meet Georgene: Family First

Tech Ridge Oaks proudly recognizes Ms. Georgene, one of its esteemed residents, for her remarkable journey of dedication, love, and continuous learning.

Originally from Texarkana, Texas, Georgene embarked on a journey of education and love that led her to call Austin home. After graduating from Dunbar High School, she pursued her bachelor’s degree at Huston-Tillotson University. There, she met her lifelong love, James. Their union lasted 63 wonderful years.

Throughout her life, Georgene dedicated herself to the noble profession of education, shaping the lives of countless children and inspiring them to reach for the stars. Her passion for nurturing young minds extended to supporting her students’ goals and dreams. Georgene’s encouragement helped two of her students achieve the honor of class valedictorian.

Georgene’s family is at the center of her heart. She is a devoted mother to two children and a cherished grandmother to five grandchildren. Georgene has grandsons, Grant, Maxwell, and Robert Chance, and two granddaughters, Reagan and Elise. They all benefit from her love, support, and wisdom.

A woman of faith and prayer, Georgene has been a steadfast member of her Bible Study Fellowship, finding solace and strength in her spiritual journey.

Beyond her role as an educator and matriarch, Georgene is known for her passion for gardening. “Her green thumb is legendary,” shares Activity Director Dominique Wright. “Her gardens have been a source of beauty enjoyed by everyone and are worthy of a feature in Better Homes & Gardens,” she says.

Tech Ridge Oaks Celebrates Georgene and Rodney

At Tech Ridge Oaks, we’re fortunate to have residents like Georgene and Rodney in our North Austin Senior Living community. They enrich our community and inspire all who have the privilege of knowing them.

Our vibrant residents experience the true meaning of Austin retirement living – the freedom to enjoy life in a warm, supportive environment. We invite you to tour our community and get a feel for how happy our residents are.

Learn More About North Austin Senior Living at Tech Ridge Oaks

Meet residents like Rodney and Georgene, and explore the care, service, and friendship of senior living. Contact us today to get started.