The Patrician Home, formerly located at 1511 North Bigelow Street, was a beloved senior living facility that prided itself on providing a warm and family-oriented environment for its residents. Under the ownership of Patricia and Edwin, the home catered to seniors who didn't require full nursing care but needed assistance with daily living activities. The spacious grounds, once owned by prominent Peorians, became a tranquil setting where residents could enjoy their golden years in comfort.
For over 40 years, the Patrician Home was run by dedicated individuals such as Julee Whitman, who served as the executive director for 35 years. Building on the legacy of her parents, Whitman worked tirelessly to ensure that the facility was a welcoming place for both residents and their families. The sense of community at the home was palpable, with residents and staff forming close bonds that made it feel more like a family home than a traditional assisted living facility.
Jacob Clifton, Whitman's cousin, also had a deep connection to the Patrician Home, having grown up visiting the facility and later working there during the COVID-19 pandemic. He described the home as a "home away from home" where residents were included in family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Clifton's involvement with the facility not only allowed him to experience the day-to-day operations but also forged lasting relationships with residents who became like extended family members to him.
In November 2023, the Patrician Home was sold to America Senior Living, which rebranded it as Liberty Estate Senior Living with a focus on independent living for seniors. While the change marked the end of an era for the Patrician Home and its original owners, the new management expressed a commitment to preserving the legacy of the facility. Larry Mikell, a principal director at America Senior Living, emphasized the importance of building upon the foundation laid by Whitman, Clifton, and their family, aiming to enhance the services offered at Liberty Estate while honoring the decades of service to seniors in the community.