Fahrney Keedy Celebrates 120 Years of Service to Washington County Seniors

Fahrney Keedy is celebrating its 120th anniversary, marking more than a century of dedication to senior care in Washington County, Maryland. Since its founding in 1905, the organization has provided a continuum of services, from independent living to skilled nursing, ensuring that no resident is denied care due to financial limitations. As it commemorates this milestone, Fahrney Keedy looks ahead to future expansion and continued service to the region’s aging population.

Originally established as the Fahrney Memorial Home for the Aged, the facility was made possible by a donation from Dr. Peter Fahrney of Chicago to the Church of the Brethren. The gift honored his grandfather, a physician in Washington County whose research contributed to patented medicines. In 1952, a bequest from Hagerstown businessman Clarence Keedy led to the renaming of the facility as Fahrney Keedy Memorial Home. Over the decades, the organization has grown into a full-service continuing care retirement community, offering a range of services including memory care, rehabilitation, and adult day medical programs.

The organization’s leadership emphasizes its role in providing care to vulnerable seniors who might otherwise struggle to find support. President and CEO Steve Coetzee, who has led the organization since 2015, highlights the mission’s evolution, particularly in the wake of challenges faced by senior care communities post-pandemic. In November 2022, Fahrney Keedy expanded its reach by acquiring Coffman Nursing Home in Hagerstown, reinforcing its ability to meet growing demands for senior healthcare. Board Chair Leslie Hart, also a resident, envisions continued growth, positioning Fahrney Keedy as a top choice for senior living and employment in the region.

Strategically located near Boonsboro, the 147-acre campus provides a natural, serene environment for its residents. Leadership sees this location as an advantage for future expansion to accommodate the increasing need for high-quality senior care. As Fahrney Keedy celebrates its history, it remains focused on the future, striving to uphold its legacy of compassionate service while preparing for the needs of the next generation of seniors.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors.

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