Experience the
Heritage Oaks Difference

Myra Braswell - Administrator Bio

Myra Braswell is a graduate of the University of Hull, UK where she received her Masters of Science Degree in Dementia, she also is a graduate of South University in Savannah, GA, where she majored in Business Administration. Her educational pursuits in the field of Aging & Gerontology recognize her as a Board Certified Dementia Practitioner. She also carries certifications as an Aging Life Care Professional and Life Coach. Additionally, Myra has received certifications as a trainer from the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving at Georgia Southwestern University for their Dealing with Dementia Program, and from Stanford University for their Chronic Disease Self-Management Program. Other certifications include Functional Aging Specialist, Ageless Grace Educator & Trainer, and Specialized Dementia Trainer, DACE Coach, and Dreams Coach with internationally recognized dementia education non-profit Second Wind Dreams, where she has served over the past nearly 10 years as Clinical Coordinator for their numerous state CMP Grants, in association with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid.

As a veteran educator, Myra has also served as the Programming Director for Senior Citizens Inc. at one of their senior adult day centers, working in close association with the Area Agency on Aging. She has also worked in administrative roles in skilled nursing care and with a nationally recognized in-home living assistance agency.

Myra has served on the Board of Directors for Dallas, TX based non-profit, For Love & Art©, which provides virtual museum art books/shows for the infirm and those with limited mobility. She is passionate about elder care and has served on the GA Elder Abuse Council, as a member of Georgia Council on Aging, is a volunteer community educator for the Alzheimer’s Association, and a STAR Volunteer Award winner for the Georgia CARES program. Some of Myra's hobbies include music, writing, art, reading, and interior design. Myra is a published author of inspirational short stories, articles, and devotionals some of which you can find at https://www.she-rises.net/

Veronica Lang - Resident Services Director

I love working for Heritage Oaks. We are truly a family here. I have over 26 years of experience working with the senior community. When I moved to Glynn County I originally started at the hospital in Labor and Delivery and after a couple of years, I made the decision to work with the senior community. It is a special joy to watch seniors not just have longevity but live, and not just live but be “alive”.

Devon Williams - Wellness Director

I am a native of Brunswick, Georgia. I consider myself a spiritual person and do my best to strive for perfection, not only for myself but to inspire those individuals around me. I am a man who loves to make a difference in others' lives, encouraging them to live life to their fullest potential. I became interested in this field due to my father passing away when I was 21 years of age. As I watched his life slowly being taken away from him, I wished I could have done more. It was then I decided to do my best to make a difference in the lives of others, and shine a light that would brighten their day as frequently as I could.

  I have been in this field for more than 15 years and I continue to love it. I have been a Memory Care Director, Wellness Coordinator, Certified Med Aide, Certified Nurse's Assistant and now a Wellness Director. My goal is to one day become an Assistant Administrator, then ultimately an Administrator. I strive to be the best I can be for myself and my family. My family becomes those person's I connect with throughout the years, those that I've been able to make an impact on, and those I’m able to build up through being a mentor and friend.

As your Wellness Director here at Heritage Oaks Retirement Living, I invite you to come and visit with us! We can make a difference in your loved one’s life and we look forward to saying, ”Welcome Home” to each new resident, family, and friends to Heritage Oaks Retirement Living.

Valerie Bigglest - Healthcare Services Director

I am a Licensed Practical Nurse holding a license since November 2012. I have been working with the elder community for the majority of my nursing career, starting as a floor nurse in a nursing and rehabilitation center. I did try my hand at pediatric home health nursing for a year but came back to geriatric patients in the role of a floor nurse at an assisted living facility. My previous roles prepared me for coming to Heritage Oaks in a leadership role.

Kristina Magalski - Sales & Marketing Director

I am thrilled to be part of the Heritage Oaks team where I have the privilege of helping families find the perfect home for their loved ones. My journey in senior care began at the age of 13 when I volunteered with my youth group, hosting bingo for seniors! Over the past 12 years, my commitment to senior care has only grown; especially as I served as a caretaker for both my grandparents and great-grandparents. This personal hands-on experience deepened my understanding of the importance of senior care; leading me toward opportunities in marketing and sales. Today, I’m proud to guide prospective residents through everything that makes Heritage Oaks such a unique and vibrant place to live and thrive! With a proven track record and industry success, I feel both proud and passionate about my role in this wonderful community!

Gerry Mize - Activities Director

For more than 40 years, Gerry has served as an Activity Director across long term care, dementia units, assisted living, independent retirement living and as a consultant. He holds a degree in Therapeutic Recreation, and is nationally certified. He has lived on St. Simons Island for 25 years and is active in his church and sings in the choir. Occasionally, you may find him on the stage at the community theater. His creativity and many talents make him the best at what he does and we are proud to have him at Heritage Oaks Retirement Living.

Lee Gipson - Environmental Services Director

Always mindful about the cleanliness and appearance of our resident’s personal environment as well as the common areas across our property, Lee does an extraordinary job. Supervising the team of Housekeepers, and maintaining our Central Supply, Lee is never too busy to stop and take care of a resident’s request. With years of experience in Environmental Services he both leads and inspires those who work under his supervision and prides himself on both efficiency and quality for a job “well-done”!

Jerald Lloyd - Maintenance Director

With a diverse background that extends across more than 20 years, Jerald brings a love for serving seniors into whatever task he is working on. A master arborist, gardener extraordinaire, and top-level maintenance technician, taking care of the needs of the community, assisting residents, and maintaining the overall condition and appearance of our buildings and grounds are his passion and priority. Jerald will tell you, “Doing things “the right way” and making sure the residents feel proud of where they live gives me a great sense of purpose and pride about what I do.”

Barbara Harris - Transportation Director

Working in senior living for a number of years, Barbara truly enjoys escorting residents on appointments, outings, and trips about town. With a smile that is priceless, Barbara taxis and shuttles both groups and individuals to destinations of importance and pleasure. She is patient, thoughtful, and provides excellent and efficient service for those who utilize our transportation services.

LaToya Green - Director of Nutritional Services

I have been working in the Food Service Industry for over 20 years and am a Certified Food Service Manager with Metz Culinary Group. I am very passionate about my work and feel that cooking allows me to show my creativity and love for food. The opportunity for enjoying good nutritious food, friendly conversation, in a warm inviting atmosphere enhances the lives of the residents we serve. I am happy to be the Director of Nutritional Services at Heritage Oaks Retirement Living.