Lisgarel Residential Home marks 50 years with heartfelt memory book project

Lisgarel Residential Home staff members Michelle Shannon, Irene McCann, Louanne Bakker and Margaret Montgomery with a display of old photographs and newspaper articles set up as part of the home’s 50th anniversary.

Lisgarel Residential Home in Larne is celebrating a remarkable milestone as it commemorates 50 years since its opening in March 1975.

To mark the occasion, the care home’s staff are compiling a special memory book, capturing decades of cherished moments, heartfelt stories, and the enduring legacy of a place that has touched countless lives in the local community.

Manager Louanne Bakker, who has been spearheading the anniversary preparations, spoke with enthusiasm about the project.

“Over the years, there have been many celebrations and happy times at Lisgarel,” she said. “We’ve been planning for this anniversary for some time, and it has been a joy to reconnect with those who have been part of our story. This memory book is a way to honour the residents, staff, and community members who have made Lisgarel what it is today.”

Lisgarel Residential Home Manager Louanne Bakker pictured with Margaret Dempsey who worked at Lisgarel for 25 years from 1975, and later went on to hold the position of manager.

As part of the celebrations, the care home welcomed back Margaret Dempsey, one of Lisgarel’s original staff members from 1975. Ms. Dempsey, who spent 25 years working at the home, shared fond recollections of her time there, and how she enjoyed 25 wonderful years working with residents, staff and families.

The memory book project has already seen an outpouring of contributions from former staff, clergy, and local community members. Louanne Bakker noted that the response has been overwhelming:

“It was a real pleasure to have visitors calling in, including former colleagues and others who have contributed in unique ways to Lisgarel’s legacy,” she said. “Their stories are helping us piece together a rich tapestry of memories that reflect the heart of this home.”

Lisgarel has long been a cornerstone of the Larne community, providing care and support to generations of residents. The home’s commitment to fostering a sense of family and belonging has left an indelible mark, with countless individuals – from staff to volunteers – playing a role in its success.

Pictured at Lisgarel’s 50th anniversary celebrations are Stephen McFetridge (volunteer) Colette O’Neill (Northern Trust Area Manager) Paula Mullan, Denise Gurney and Louanne Bakker (Manager).

The anniversary celebrations aim to recognise these contributions while preserving the home’s history for future generations.

The staff are now extending an open invitation to anyone with connections to Lisgarel to share their stories, photographs, or memories for inclusion in the memory book.

“So many people have played a vital part in our journey,” Louanne said. “We would love to hear from anyone who has a story or cherished moment to share. This is a chance to make history come alive and ensure that Lisgarel’s legacy endures.”

Those wishing to contribute can contact the team at Lisgarel Residential Home by calling 028 2827 4833.

Whether it’s a recollection of a special event, a moment of connection with a resident, or a reflection on time spent working at the home, every story will help celebrate the remarkable 50-year journey of Lisgarel.

As the memory book takes shape, Lisgarel’s staff and residents look forward to reflecting on the past while continuing to build a future rooted in care, community, and compassion. For a place that has been a home to so many, this anniversary is not just a milestone but a testament to the enduring power of human connection.