ORANGE PARK — As it was a day for love, it was also a day for legacy and honor as Penney Retirement Community kicked off its centennial celebration on Saturday, Feb. 14.

A crowd of over 100 arrived at the Thrasher-Horne Center dressed to impress for the James Cash Penney Legacy Gala and Gallery. In addition to dinner prepared by Anthony's Gourmet Catering, the evening also featured an art exhibition filled with works from local artists from Penney's scenic campus.

"Tonight is more than a gala. It's the opening chapter of a remarkable milestone and the life of a beloved community," said Penney President and CEO Teresa Scott.

The campus was originally named Memorial Home Community, founded by businessman James Cash (J.C.) Penney in 1926. In between his years of running his growing JCPenney business, in 1922 he purchased 120,000 acres of Clay County farmland, which would eventually become the Town of Penney Farms. Later on, he purchased the retirement community as a way to support pastors, missionaries and YMCA workers – recognizing the challenges often faced by retirees.

Since then, the nonprofit Christian community has grown to be filled with more than 500 residents dedicated to purposeful living. Continuing Penney's mission, the community also includes Penney Memorial Church, the Pavillion for Health Care and resident gems like the Penney Train Club and Mobility Worldwide Penney Farms – a Personal Energy Transportation center where community volunteers craft three-wheeled, hand-powered vehicles for those in need around the world.

It was a night to honor the past, while investing in the future. Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook emceed the evening's program, which featured addresses from Penney centennial partner Baptist Medical Center Clay and the Paul and Klare Reinhold Foundation. David Kruger, the author of "J.C. Penney — The Man, The Store, and American Agriculture," was also in attendance.

Paul and Klare Reinhold Foundation Trustee George Eagan spoke about the relationship between Mr. Penney and Paul Reinhold. Paul got a call from Mr. Penney's attorney asking for him to run a dairy farm in Jacksonville. Paul was the CEO of Foremost, while Mr. Penney was a shareholder.

"These two gentlemen started off as business associates and then eventually became acquaintances, friends and then lifelong friends," Eagan said.

Third, fourth and fifth generation Penney family members also made a memorable appearance. The group had spent the early day touring the community and meeting residents for the first time. They stayed on Caroline Boulevard, which was named after their grandmother.

Mr. Penney's granddaughter, Alissa Keny-Guyer, gave a poignant speech during the ceremony about her grandfather's continued presence on the campus.

"He believed that institutions built on integrity and service would withstand storms, not because they removed the hardship, but because they were rooted in purpose," she said. 

"As I look out at all of you, I see the living continuation of a 100-year-old vision that aging deserves respect, that community combats loneliness and that service is a lifelong value.  For our family, this evening is profoundly meaningful."

The JC Penney National HCSC Alumni Club presented Scott with a special plaque, celebrating her work and role within the community. The evening's honoree, Frances "Chance" Irvine also had her time to shine with a special award. Irvine is a retired Florida legislator and has served on the Penney Board of Directors for more than 25 years.

Additionally, Scott announced that the community's Shepherd's Scholarship Program will be renamed the James Cash Penney Legacy Fund. The charitable initiative aims to support retired missionaries, ministers and YMCA workers with their entry into the community. Gala proceeds benefitted the fund.

"Those who have spent their lives giving to others will find a home where they are supported, valued and cared for," Scott said.

The evening ended with a special performance by the Tony Steve Orchestra.  Next up in the year-long celebration, Penney is inviting the community to join them for Still Standing: James Cash Penney and the Community. The historic play will be performed by the Clamour Theatre Company and reenact the founding of the community. There will be matinee and evening performances on April 17 at 3495 Hoffman St.