FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Maureen Bergmueller
Senior Citizens Inc.
912-236-0363(w) 323-877-1617 (cell)
mbergmueller@seniorcitizens-inc.org
SAVANNAH, GA (May 15, 2026) — Senior Citizens Inc. welcomed community leaders, supporters, and guests to The Palmetto Club at The Landings on Thursday for its annual Legends, Leaders and Life Well Lived Awards Luncheon, a celebration honoring three remarkable individuals whose lives of service and leadership have left an indelible mark on Savannah.
This year’s honorees — Pat Hackney, Shirley Barber James, and Dr. Paul Pressly — were recognized for their extraordinary contributions to the community, each representing the spirit of compassion, leadership, and lasting impact that defines the award.
- Pat Hackney was honored for her unwavering generosity, compassionate leadership, and commitment to building a stronger Savannah through philanthropy and service.
- Shirley Barber James was recognized for her visionary leadership, steadfast dedication, and enduring influence on Savannah’s civic and cultural life.
- Dr. Paul Pressly was celebrated for preserving and illuminating Savannah’s rich history, ensuring future generations understand and appreciate the stories that shaped this community.
“Some people leave an impression. Others leave a legacy,” said Patti Lyons, President of Senior Citizens Inc. “Pat, Shirley, and Paul have each helped shape Savannah in meaningful and lasting ways through their leadership, generosity, and dedication to others. It was our tremendous honor to celebrate them and the lives they have so beautifully lived.”
The annual luncheon recognizes individuals whose contributions have enriched the community and inspired others through lives marked by purpose, service, and impact.
This year’s event also highlighted Senior Citizens Inc.’s mission of helping people age successfully and is asking the community to ‘Be the Next Knock on the Door,’ reminding attendees that for many older adults, a simple knock can represent nourishment, safety, compassion, and hope.
Through programs including Meals on Wheels, neighborhood centers, respite care, adult day health services, care navigation, and lifelong learning opportunities, Senior Citizens Inc. continues to support older adults and families throughout coastal Georgia.
Senior Citizens Inc. extends heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors, supporters, and guests whose generosity helps make this work possible.
ABOUT SCI
Senior Citizens Inc. (SCI) has been helping people in coastal Georgia age successfully since 1959 through a variety of programs including Meals on Wheels, Adult Day Health Centers, DayBreak Respite Care, The Learning Center, and much more. To learn more about SCI and its services, please visit www.SeniorCitizensInc.org or call 912-236-0363
Photo attached: Pat Hackney, Paul Pressly, Shirley James
