Celebrating 50 Years of Community, Care and Connection at Carillon
In 1975, Texas was buzzing with cultural milestones and big ideas. Willie Nelson was leading the charge in the outlaw country movement, Austin was staking its claim as a live music mecca, and the Dallas Cowboys were becoming “America’s Team.” It’s also the year Carillon Senior Living was founded as a small retirement community on the edge of Texas Tech University.
We’ve since grown into a thriving, dynamic community for active seniors and proudly stand as the only senior living community offering LifeCare in West Texas. As we celebrate Carillon’s 50th anniversary, we reflect on what makes our community special: five decades of integrity, compassion, and a deep connection to Red Raider traditions and West Texas spirit.
Legacy of Excellence and Stability
Carillon’s story began when John Knox Village purchased land from Texas Tech University and established a retirement community as part of a larger network of senior living centers. By 1982, Carillon became independently operated, embracing its not-for-profit status under a local board of directors. In 1990, the community adopted the name Carillon, marking a new chapter of growth and excellence.
Carillon has been the cornerstone of exceptional senior care in the South Plains. “Our commitment has always been to provide our residents with a quality, affordable Life Plan while promoting security, comfort, dignity, independence and a strong family atmosphere,” said Pam Roddy, executive director. “Our culture is that of hospitality, and we live by our promises.
Roddy also noted that longevity and stability set Carillon apart in a competitive senior living market. Seniors and their families seek security and a sense of belonging, and Carillon delivers with a track record of quality care and financial soundness. “Every dollar goes back to benefit our residents,” she said. “We take a conservative approach to ensure Carillon provides a comfortable home and remains fiscally solvent for years to come.”
Only LifeCare Community in West Texas
Carillon’s distinction as the only LifeCare community in West Texas offers residents unmatched peace of mind. LifeCare guarantees access to a full continuum of care—from independent living to assisted living and 24-hour nursing care—with little to no increase in monthly costs. This unique model alleviates concerns about the affordability and availability of long-term care services.
“LifeCare significantly reduces worry for residents and their families,” Roddy said. “It’s about security, comfort and knowing you’ll never need to move to another community because Carillon provides everything you need on one campus.”
Excellence in Leadership and Management
Carillon’s success is further bolstered by its partnership with Life Care Services (LCS)®, An LCS Company® and a national leader in senior living management. “LCS manages over 100 communities just like Carillon across the United States, with experts in every area: nursing, plant operations, finance, human resources and technology,” Roddy said. “This expertise ensures the best service is provided to all older adults living on every LCS campus.”
A commitment to excellence has earned Carillon numerous accolades. In 2022-2023, Carillon was one of just seven communities nationwide to receive a U.S. News & World Report Best Senior Living Community award. LCS has earned the J.D. Power Award for six consecutive years.
These awards based on resident satisfaction mean the most to Roddy. “The honors reflect the dedication of our residents and our experienced management team and staff,” she said. “I’m proud to be part of such an exceptional community.”
Evolving With Purpose
Over the years, Carillon has evolved to meet seniors’ changing needs and desires. What started as a single building for independent living and nursing care now includes three multistory buildings, cottages and villas.
Our campus is home for over 400 seniors, and it has a workforce of over 300. We offer an array of amenities and activities, from fitness programs and cultural events to lifelong learning opportunities and spiritual services. “Our mission is to provide the best choice for active retirement living in the Southwest,” Roddy said. “And we’ve stayed true to that promise.”
As Carillon celebrates its 50th anniversary, the community is also looking to the future, with the board of directors recently completing a 10-year master plan. “Currently, we’re working on the first phase of updating our assisted living apartments and the next phase will be to add additional independent living homes,” Roddy said.
“I’m looking forward to growing so we can share this great lifestyle with even more seniors and their families. Carillon is more than a place to live; it’s a place to thrive.”
Celebrate With Us
Carillon’s 50th anniversary is a milestone worth celebrating, and we invite you to be part of it. Join us Thursday, April 10, to experience our vibrant community, meet residents and learn more about the exceptional lifestyle we offer. Contact us today to discover why Carillon has been the cornerstone of senior living in West Texas for five decades.