The Heartwarming Story of John and Elizabeth Harralson

February 10, 2024

Embracing the festive fervor of the season, Kendal at Lexington is diving headfirst into the spirit of Valentine’s Day. Amidst the picturesque backdrop of our sprawling 84-acre campus, love blossoms at every turn, fostering a sense of warmth and connection that transcends generations. It’s a community where countless couples, both among our esteemed staff and cherished residents, have cultivated enduring relationships spanning decades.

With love as our guiding light, we’ve chosen to shine a spotlight on a select few individuals whose remarkable stories embody the essence of love, commitment, and companionship that define the fabric of Kendal at Lexington.

In the quaint setting of Kendal at Lexington, amidst the rolling hills and serene landscapes, resides John and Elizabeth Harralson.

John, a now retired obstetrician/gynecologist, and Elizabeth, a multifaceted educator and artist, found themselves drawn together in a twist of fate that began with a delayed ride home from a tennis weekend many decades ago.

While it wasn’t love at first sight, Elizabeth knew by their third date that John was the one she wanted to spend her life with.

“By the third date, I knew I wanted to marry him,” said Elizabeth. “I told my mother that I had been dating boys and he was a mature man.”

Their courtship was filled with meaningful conversations and mutual admiration, culminating in a heartfelt engagement and a beautiful wedding ceremony at Elizabeth’s parents’ home in Louisiana, Missouri in 1972.

Their journey together has been marked by countless cherished memories, from their adventurous years in Turkey, where John was an Air Force physician and Elizabeth taught at the base DOD school, to their shared love for travel and exploration across Europe, Africa, and beyond.

Despite their busy lives and diverse interests, John and Elizabeth have always prioritized each other.

As they embarked on their journey to Kendal at Lexington, John and Elizabeth found solace in the community’s embrace and the promise of a supportive network. With no children of their own, they knew the importance of having a safety net and a place to call home surrounded by like-minded friends.

Today, John and Elizabeth continue to embody the spirit of shared adventure. From tennis matches and wine tastings to gardening and volunteer work, their days are filled with joy and companionship, serving as a beacon of inspiration for all who cross their path.

As they reflect on their journey together, John and Elizabeth offer a timeless piece of advice to those considering marriage: “Work at it, compromise, and never underestimate the power of laughter.”