Bickford of Shelby is Celebrating the Milestones of Achievement with Jackie Decker!
Jackie was born under the wide, open skies of South Dakota, where the land stretched farther than the eye could see and life was shaped by hard work and simple joys. She grew up on a farm with her parents, her sister, and her brother, learning early the value of responsibility and resilience. But Jackie didn’t just work, she lived fully. She rode cattle and horses with confidence, climbed onto motorcycles without hesitation, and drove trucks loaded with corn to the granary for storage. And when the day’s work was done, she picked up her saxophone and filled the prairie air with music. In high school, Jackie met Dewey, the boy who would become the love of her life. Their time together was interrupted when Dewey joined the Army as a paratrooper and was stationed in Japan. While he served overseas, Jackie stayed busy back home, working as a secretary at her Uncle Frank’s chiropractic clinic, proving her independence and strength. After 14 years of marriage, Jackie and Dewey made a bold decision. With their seven children, they moved to Detroit, Michigan, ready to begin a new chapter. Life there was different, but Jackie embraced it wholeheartedly. She became a high school librarian, where her love of learning and people flourished. She built lasting friendships and created a warm, welcoming presence wherever she went. Travel became one of Jackie and Dewey’s greatest joys. Together, they explored the United States in their fifth-wheel travel trailer, collecting memories mile by mile.
Even in retirement, Jackie never slowed down. She poured her energy into singing with the church choir and volunteering at the Chamber of Commerce in Blairsville, Georgia. She stayed connected, involved, and full of life. After Dewey passed, Jackie returned to Michigan, carrying with her a lifetime of love, memories, and strength. Today, at Bickford Senior Living, Jackie continues to do what she has always done, build friendships and brighten the lives around her. She is well-loved, deeply respected, and still walking her journey with grace.
Now, on her 100th birthday, Jackie stands as a testament to a life fully lived—rich with family, adventure, music, connection and she is on the Higher Path at Bickford of Shelby!
Olivia Walton
Apr 17, 2026
At Bickford Senior Living, creating meaningful moments is at the heart of everything we do—and this week was no exception. We were thrilled to partner with Optimal Home Care for a special cause that brought smiles not only to our residents, but to some very deserving furry friends. Together, our residents and team members spent the day crafting homemade treats for animals at Detroit Animal Care and Control. From mixing ingredients to carefully packaging each treat, the room was filled with laughter, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose. This activity wasn’t just about making treats—it was about connection. Our residents loved knowing they were giving back to animals waiting for their forever homes. Many shared heartfelt stories about their own pets, making the experience even more meaningful and personal. Giving back to the community is something we deeply value at Bickford Senior Living. Partnering with Optimal Home Care allowed us to extend that mission beyond our walls and into the lives of local animals who need a little extra love and care. We are incredibly proud of everyone who participated and helped make this day so special. It’s moments like these that remind us that kindness has no age limit—and even the smallest gestures can make a big impact. Here’s to more partnerships, more purpose, and more ways to make a difference together.
Olivia Walton
Apr 16, 2026
Cold season is finally behind us, and we’re so excited to be back to our weekly outings! ☀️
Vickie Andrews
Apr 16, 2026
Bickford of Shelby is Celebrating the Milestones of Achievement with Jackie Decker! Jackie was born under the wide, open skies of South Dakota, where the land stretched farther than the eye could see and life was shaped by hard work and simple joys. She grew up on a farm with her parents, her sister, and her brother, learning early the value of responsibility and resilience. But Jackie didn’t just work, she lived fully. She rode cattle and horses with confidence, climbed onto motorcycles without hesitation, and drove trucks loaded with corn to the granary for storage. And when the day’s work was done, she picked up her saxophone and filled the prairie air with music. In high school, Jackie met Dewey, the boy who would become the love of her life. Their time together was interrupted when Dewey joined the Army as a paratrooper and was stationed in Japan. While he served overseas, Jackie stayed busy back home, working as a secretary at her Uncle Frank’s chiropractic clinic, proving her independence and strength. After 14 years of marriage, Jackie and Dewey made a bold decision. With their seven children, they moved to Detroit, Michigan, ready to begin a new chapter. Life there was different, but Jackie embraced it wholeheartedly. She became a high school librarian, where her love of learning and people flourished. She built lasting friendships and created a warm, welcoming presence wherever she went. Travel became one of Jackie and Dewey’s greatest joys. Together, they explored the United States in their fifth-wheel travel trailer, collecting memories mile by mile. Even in retirement, Jackie never slowed down. She poured her energy into singing with the church choir and volunteering at the Chamber of Commerce in Blairsville, Georgia. She stayed connected, involved, and full of life. After Dewey passed, Jackie returned to Michigan, carrying with her a lifetime of love, memories, and strength. Today, at Bickford Senior Living, Jackie continues to do what she has always done, build friendships and brighten the lives around her. She is well-loved, deeply respected, and still walking her journey with grace. Now, on her 100th birthday, Jackie stands as a testament to a life fully lived—rich with family, adventure, music, connection and she is on the Higher Path at Bickford of Shelby!
Carla Riden
Apr 7, 2026
Every month our BFMs at Bickford of Shelby obtain wellness checks on all of our residents. Monthly weights and vital signs are important to keep everyone on our Higher Path.
Carla Riden
Apr 7, 2026
At Bickford of Shelby, we don’t see it as bingo… we see it as a social event with prizes where everyone is always welcome. #socialization. #bingo #bickfordofshelby
Carla Riden
Apr 3, 2026
A friendly game of connect four offers significant cognitive, social and physical benefits.
Carla Riden
Apr 3, 2026
Meet Abbeigh, our Branch Buddy at Bickford of Shelby. Dogs in assisted living settings can make a surprisingly big difference in residents’ quality of life—emotionally, physically, and even socially. Contact Carla at (586)371-6850 for more information #dogs #assistedliving # memorycare
Carla Riden
Apr 3, 2026
If you would like to join us on Easter for lunch, please let us know so we can save you a seat.
Carla Riden
Mar 27, 2026
Would your loved one benefit from physical, occupational, and/or speech therapy—but find that in-home therapy is short-lived, exercises aren’t consistently followed, and old habits return quickly? At Bickford of Shelby, our onsite FOX Rehab team is here full time. That means more than just quality therapy sessions—it means consistency, reinforcement of healthy habits, therapy that can continue over longer periods of time, and seamless integration into our residents’ daily lives. Our FOX Rehab team communicates closely with the Bickford team to ensure every aspect of care supports progress and well-being. To learn more, reach out to Carla at (586)206-5837. #physicaltherapy #foxrehab #bickfordofshelby
Carla Riden
Mar 20, 2026
At Bickford of Shelby, our caregivers are called BFMs — Bickford Family Members - because they care like family. Each day in Shelby Township, our BFMs build real connections with our residents. They offer support, share conversations, and take time to truly know each person. It's these simple, meaningful relationships that make our community feel like home.