01/09/2026
Hometown Heart and Hustle | The Orchard
We are proud to highlight a few of Madison County’s most enduring businesses that have been serving our community for more than 25 years! Today, we highlight The Orchard, an establishment that has provided more than 40 years of quality, heartfelt care! We are truly blessed to have you as part of our community.
The Orchard: Forty Years of Loving Care
by Susan Marquez
Sandra Strain found her calling when she started working at The Orchard in Ridgeland five years ago. “I can’t say enough good things about this place,” she says. As Director of Community Relations and External Marketing, Sandra loves where she works, and she loves the people she works with and for.
The Orchard is locally operated, with Sharon Sullivan serving as the Executive Director. Celebrating 40 years in business, the facility is situated in the heart of Ridgeland on seventeen lush acres. With 219 units, The Orchard features independent living, a skilled nursing facility, and a memory care unit. “We engage the body, mind, and soul,” says Sandra.
Living at The Orchard has been compared to spending time on a cruise ship that doesn’t float – there are so many amenities and activities that no one can complain of being bored. “We have certainly earned our stripes as Mississippi’s premier retirement community,” Sandra says. “My own mother often says that coming here is like visiting a luxury hotel.”
The first thing people notice when they arrive at The Orchard is the stunning grounds. The building is beautiful as well. “We just gave it a new paint job that makes everything look so fresh and bright.” All the apartments have been updated as well with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and more. “Our apartments all have nine-foot ceilings, and many of them have patios or balconies. The apartments are huge, and they have large closets. Our memory care building opened a few years ago, and it is state-of-the-art.”
With a focus on wellness, Chef Michael Moore and his staff prepare mouthwatering breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. “He has won awards for his cooking, which is not only delicious but has a strong emphasis on nutrition for seniors.”
Socials are held on a regular basis. “We have mix and mingle events, and wine tastings,” Sandra says. “We also bring in musical entertainment. At least once a month, we hold a special dinner where residents dress up. We also take people for an evening out at area restaurants.
Other amenities include a game room, library, a beauty and barber shop in each building, beautiful courtyards, onsite banking, and a community store. Housekeeping service is provided, and laundry service is available in the skilled nursing and memory care units. “We also provide regular doctor visits by a podiatrist, an optician to adjust glasses, and someone who does hearing aid maintenance.”
Moving and staying active is important for a good quality of life, and Sandra says that in addition to a gym, chair exercises are offered to help keep arthritis at bay. “We also have bingo, movies, and church services, as well as weekly Bible studies.”
Celebrating birthdays and other milestones is also important for The Orchard family. And that’s what it feels like there – a family. “So many of our staff have been here long-term. They love what they do, and they consider it a ministry. They are devoted and compassionate with everyone.”
A beautiful and conveniently located retirement community, The Orchard is close to medical facilities, cultural events, shopping, and other amenities, with a driver who will take residents to doctors’ appointments, shopping, and to vote.
“I am so thankful to work here,” says Sandra. “I truly love all the residents and look forward to seeing them every day. The Orchard is a gem in Madison County.”
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