For Sally Stein, life has been shaped by service, family, and a love of learning. From growing up in Troy to building a career in education and community leadership, she has always valued connection. Today, she and her husband Walter enjoy life at 10 Wilmington Place, where she stays active and involved in her new community. “I think the key to being here is making friends,” she said. “Friends always make it feel like home.”

From Troy Roots to a Life of Service

Born and raised in Troy, Ohio, just north of Dayton, Sally graduated from Miami University in 1957 and began her career as a teacher, spending about 20 years in the classroom, including time in Troy, Huber Heights, and Brookville. Later, she stepped away from full-time teaching to care for her widowed mother, continuing to stay involved through substitute teaching. “Teaching was always meaningful to me,” she said. “I loved working with students and being part of the community.”

A Second Career with Global Impact

Her path soon led to leadership roles with the Miami County Red Cross and the American Heart Association, before she found what she considers her second career as director of the Children’s International Summer Village Program. The organization brings children from multiple countries together to build friendships and bring understanding of other cultures at a young age as the students live together for a month in the summer. “It was a peace-promoting program, and I enjoyed it very much,” she said. Her own children participated as well, traveling abroad and later serving as junior counselors. “It was an incredible experience for them and for our family.”

Family, Travel, and Life Together

She met her husband Walter at Miami University, even though they had attended the same high school. “He asked me out, and I thought, well, I guess it’s safe,” she recalled with a laugh. Together they raised two sons and a daughter and later enjoyed many years of travel, church involvement, and time outdoors, including tennis and volunteer work. Walter, a chief financial officer for Southwestern Portland Cement, also spent years volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and woodworking. “Oh my goodness, we have done so many things together,” she smiled.

Retirement Years in South Carolina

After retirement, the couple moved to Bluffton, South Carolina, near Hilton Head, where they spent nearly 25 years in a Sun City retirement community filled with outdoor activities and clubs. Still, as time passed, they began considering a move closer to family in Ohio. Their son in Centerville helped research options in the Dayton area. “He visited several places and felt this one was the best fit for us,” she said. “The location and the activities really stood out.”

Choosing 10 Wilmington Place

They moved to 10 Wilmington Place nearly two years ago, and she says the transition has been smooth. “We’ve been very happy here,” she said. “The people are friendly and helpful, and there’s always something going on.” She appreciates the sense of security, the attentive staff, and the welcoming atmosphere among residents.

Staying Active and Connected

Sally regularly attends exercise classes, yoga, balance sessions, craft activities, and Bible study, while Walter enjoys euchre, reading, and puzzles. Together, they’ve found ways to stay socially engaged, including card groups and shared meals with friends. “Most of the friendships I’ve made here started through activities,” she said. “That’s really the best way to get involved.”

The Little Things That Matter

Beyond activities, she values the everyday conveniences and opportunities that make life easier and more enjoyable, from bus trips to grocery stores, concerts, and local destinations to library services that deliver books every few weeks. Her family also enjoys gathering in the Newcom Lounge for birthdays and celebrations.

Words of Advice

For anyone considering senior living, her advice is simple: visit and see how it feels. “Come and try it out,” she said. “Find what you enjoy, meet people with similar interests, and try to make friends as much as you can.”

Finding Community Close to Home

After decades of teaching, leading organizations, raising a family, and traveling the world, she has found comfort in being back near Dayton and close to loved ones. At 10 Wilmington Place, she says life feels active, supported, and connected. Thinking about 10 Wilmington Place for yourself or a loved one? Schedule a tour today and see why Sally (and our other residents) love to call it home!