Meet Lea Embree
This Month's Spotlighted Independent Living Resident
Lea Embree doesn’t just enjoy community life — she looks for ways to shape it. She is a vibrant presence at Pomperaug Woods, sharing her talents as an artist, gardener, baker, and volunteer. For Lea, connection is something you create.
Born in Cleveland, OH, and raised on a chicken farm in Louisville, KY, Lea followed her creative instincts from Wittenberg University to Cornell University, where she met her husband, Alan. Their life together included being stationed with the Army in Germany and traveling across Europe before they settled back in the United States to raise their family. Along the way, Lea built a distinguished artistic career, exhibiting ceramic work at The Smithsonian and spending four decades designing educational exhibits for museums and the 1964 World’s Fair. “Art has been my way of understanding the world,” said Lea. “And sharing that understanding with others.”
After her husband’s passing in 2018, Lea set out to find a place where she could continue to live with purpose. She toured seven communities before choosing Pomperaug Woods. “I was looking for a place where I could still give something of myself every day, and that it would matter,” Lea said. Drawn to the community’s intimate size, the light-filled architecture, and welcoming atmosphere, Lea quickly made her apartment and patio garden an extension of her spirit. “I grow geraniums outside,” said Lea, “and inside, I try to grow a sense of belonging.”
Lea wasted no time getting involved. She volunteers both on campus and at the Southbury Food Bank, has served on multiple resident committees, performs with the Pomperaug Players drama group, attends fitness classes, and enjoys trips to museums and galleries. “I follow my curiosity,” Lea said. “If something feels like it might bring people together, I say yes.” Much of her impact happens in small, personal ways. She bakes cookies for staff, shares pies with neighbors, and gives away flowers and vegetables from her garden. “There is a quiet kind of joy in offering something you’ve made with your own hands,” Lea said. “It means so much to me to add to the warmth of this community in any way I can.”
Even after a serious health setback a few years ago, Lea remained focused on returning to the meaningful life she had built. Following a stay in the Pomperaug Woods Health Center, she regained her strength and moved back to Independent Living. “I have more to give,” said Lea. “I’m not finished yet.”
Lea’s advice to anyone considering a move? “Do your homework. Ask meaningful questions. Do residents have a voice? Is the community financially strong? Are there opportunities to keep growing?” Lea didn’t settle, and she recommends others don’t either. “Community is something you participate in,” said Lea. “And when you have the chance to contribute to it — to really be part of it — that’s what makes a place feel like home.”
We love that you look to find meaningful ways to give back every day, Lea. The beauty you bring to our community through your garden, your art, your cookies, and your smile is priceless!
Complete the form below for more information on our community.
"*" indicates required fields