In Leesburg’s Spanish Village community, a tight-knit manufactured home community, longtime residents Richard and Heidi Pearson have become a quiet constant behind its close-knit feel.
After spending a few years away, the Pearsons chose to return and make the community home again. According to a media agency representing Spanish Village, neighbors have praised them for being the first to check in when someone is unwell; yet, they haven’t sought recognition in return.
They’re the neighbors who share reminders about when to lower the U.S. flags to taking part in longtime holiday traditions.
“Their quiet compassion and consistency offer a meaningful picture of what it truly means to be a good neighbor,” the spokesperson said.
The Pearsons have lived here for a total of about 20 years.
Before Spanish Village, they lived in Tennessee. However, it was much different there as they lived in a small town, and Yankee folks did not take kindly to newcomers.
It took a long time for them to get accepted. Not like Spanish Village, however, where they were accepted and welcomed instantly.
Everyone knows the Pearsons, the residential community’s management said, and they make it their business to make newcomers feel welcomed!
What do the Pearsons do for fun? They love to read and take care of their yard, and Heidi is part of a quilting club at Spanish Village. They both try to stay as active as they can.
“We love hearing all of Dicks stories of the ‘Good ‘Ol Days,’ said one resident. “He has quite a few to tell, each one as intriguing as the next.”
Do you have good neighbors who deserve recognition in Lake or Sumter County? Tell us about them and send a photo to news@dailycommercial.com
This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: Meet the Leesburg couple who make Spanish Village a welcoming home for all
Reporting by Julie Garisto, Leesburg Daily Commercial / Daily Commercial
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
