For Anita Jones Nourse, the move to Edgemere wasn’t just about finding a no-maintenance lifestyle — it was also about moving closer to her Dallas-based daughter, Ilene Sandlin. After decades of life in Tyler and years of traveling back and forth between cities, they found a solution that brought ease, connection, and peace of mind. At the prestigious Preston Hollow senior living community, Anita has discovered a vibrant, supportive community of her own, while Ilene has gained the comfort of knowing her mother is thriving just minutes away.
Deep Roots and a Full Life
Anita grew up in University Park and attended Highland Park High School before studying at North Texas. She began her career in the legal department at Sun Oil Company in Dallas, then married and moved to Tyler, where she would spend the next 65 years building a life centered on family and tradition.
In Tyler, Anita raised her children, Ilene and Chip, and became deeply involved in the community. She volunteered with the Texas Rose Festival, while Ilene later participated as a lady-in-waiting. 
Their home was filled with memories of family gatherings, time spent sailing (or attempting to sail) on Lake Tyler, and generations of treasured belongings.
A Careful Decision
After her first husband, Buddy, passed away, she found companionship in later life with her second husband, Tom Nourse. After he passed, maintaining a large home had become increasingly difficult. With Ilene’s support, Anita began considering a move that would preserve her independence while offering more ease and support.
“We started looking at senior living communities in September 2024,” Ilene said. “And once we came to Edgemere, we just knew.”
Edgemere’s setting near the Park Cities — where Anita’s story began — offered familiarity. Its location, only 11 miles away from Ilene’s home, allows her daughter to visit easily and frequently. (Previously, the trip was 100 miles.) Its reputation for quality offered reassurance, while its inviting atmosphere made her feel at home quickly.
“Edgemere is widely known as the nicest place in Dallas,” Anita said.
A Big Transition Made Much Easier
Renovating the apartment at Edgemere was a key part of making the move feel not just practical, but personal.
After Anita selected one of the larger two-bedroom residences, Ilene took the lead on an extensive transformation of her new home. Together, they reimagined the space to reflect Anita’s style and the life she had built over decades.
“We remodeled for three months before she moved in,” Ilene shared.
The updates included wallpaper, custom finishes, new lighting, a chandelier for the 10-foot ceiling, a mounted Frame TV, updated fixtures, and curtains and window treatments to complement the apartment’s ample natural light.
Throughout the process, Edgemere’s team played an essential role. They connected Ilene with trusted vendors, coordinated logistics, and ensured everything ran smoothly — a feat that stood out amid an already complex transition.
“They have people on staff who know how to do everything you could possibly request. Whatever you need, they send you someone,” Ilene said.
Even when unexpected challenges arose — like a plumbing issue from an upstairs renovation on move-in day — the staff responded immediately, and the problem was solved on the spot.
Today, the apartment is a seamless extension of Anita’s life, filled with familiar furnishings, meaningful pieces, and thoughtful updates.
New Friends and Exceptional Service
Just as she had hoped, Edgemere quickly felt like home.
“I made some friends right off,” Anita said.
She quickly became part of daily life at Edgemere—playing bridge and bingo, enjoying meals with friends, and participating in social gatherings. Her natural warmth, combined with her talent for cards, has made her a welcome presence among fellow residents.
Dining is another highlight. From casual meals to elegant Sunday brunches, Edgemere offers refined spaces where residents can gather, connect, and enjoy delicious fare.
For Ilene, that has transformed family time as well.
“It’s so much easier,” she said. “We can just come here, spend time together, and not deal with the crowds found in Dallas restaurants or the hassle. The food is first-rate, and the service is much better, too.”
The hospitality and service at Edgemere extend far beyond the expected in every area — not just dining. During the big winter storm, several staff members stayed overnight on campus for days to ensure residents were safe and supported.
“They couldn’t have been any nicer,” Anita said
“They have the best staff here on the planet,” Ilene added.
Starting a New On-campus Tradition
Even in a new setting, Anita has found ways to bring her traditions with her.
In Tyler, she was known for hosting croquet parties, complete with multiple courts, dinner, and guests dressed in white. It was a joyful, social tradition that brought people together.
At Edgemere, she’s helped reintroduce that spirit by getting croquet going within the community. Today, the court has become a gathering place where residents and families can connect, play, and create new memories.
“It’s good for grandchildren, too,” Anita noted. “They can enjoy themselves playing as the adults chat nearby.”
Learn More
Anita’s move to Edgemere has simply made life more manageable on several levels for this mother/daughter pair. Without the concerns of constant home management and upkeep, she is free to enjoy time with her new friends and pursue her passion for bridge and croquet. What used to be a long drive back and forth to Tyler to spend time with her mother is now just a quick trip for Ilene.
Anita has her own full, active life, and Ilene has the peace of mind that comes from knowing her mom is happy and comfortable.
If you think Edgemere might be a good fit for you or a loved one, visit EdgemereLife.com or call 214-265-9100 to schedule a personal tour.