Barbara Tedford

Would you share a bit about your spiritual journey?

My parents did not go to church, but they made sure my two brothers and I attended—first the Church of England and then a neighborhood Methodist Church. I didn’t have an emotional experience like some people talk about. It’s just always been there.

I’ve been a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Ontario, Calif., for over 50 years. I currently serve as a deacon and member of the worship committee.

What brought you from England to the United States?

In January 1944, I met an American serviceman, Sergeant Doyle “Ted” Tedford, from Waco, Texas. It was love at first sight! We were married in September of the same year. After the war, we moved to the United States in 1946 and eventually settled in Southern California.

How did you hear about Upland Manor?

A friend of mine—a lady from Holland—lived here. When she learned that there were openings at the Manor, she suggested I move in. That was in 1994.

The Upland Manor community was very welcoming. It felt like I was coming home. In fact, it was so good that I’ve found myself inviting friends to come and live at the Manor, too!

In what areas do you participate in life at the Manor?

I have been involved in creating table decorations for the Manor dining room for a long time. I work with Dorcas Engle, the Manor manager, in creating centerpieces on different themes. This led to the idea of getting residents together to make Christmas decorations. We’ve been doing that for about five or six years now.

Has there been a time when you felt especially supported by your neighbors at Upland?

When my brother died very unexpectedly, members of the Manor community rallied around me. Expressions like, “I’m sorry to hear about Bill’s death,” and “Is there anything I can do for you, Barbara?” made me feel warm and cared for.

Have there been any challenges to being part of a community?

Being part of a community means learning to give and take. You have to get used to living with people who are different from you—different cultures, different interests, different ages, different abilities. It’s been a learning experience—but a good one for me.

This interview was conducted by Dorcas Lady Good, who lives with her husband, Dennis, at Upland (Calif.) Manor. They attend Upland BIC.