Rick and Wanda Sills

A Laid-Back, Active Life:
Rick and Wanda Sills at Patriots Colony

For Rick and Wanda Sills, life has been a journey of adventure, service and new beginnings.

As an Army couple who moved all over the world, they knew that when the time came to settle into their next chapter, they wanted it to be on their terms. In 2023, they made the move to Patriots Colony At Williamsburg, embracing a community rich with activity, camaraderie and a laid-back lifestyle that suits them perfectly.

A Lifetime of Moving, Together

Rick, an Army brat turned career officer retiring as a colonel, spent his life traveling the globe. After college and ROTC, his career took him back around the world, including a Vietnam tour and assignments in Germany, Texas, Florida, Kansas and the Pentagon.

His final military assignment was at Fort Monroe before retiring in 1995.

Meanwhile, Wanda was no stranger to the military life—her father was career Army as well.

Their story began with a blind date while Rick was an instructor pilot at Fort Rucker, and Wanda had just graduated from the University of Alabama. That date led to a whirlwind romance, an overseas move to Germany and a life of constant adventure.

They welcomed their children during assignments in Texas, balancing military duties with family life.

After retirement, the couple settled in Yorktown for 30 years before deciding that the responsibilities of homeownership were no longer for them.

“I wanted us to do it while it was our decision and on our timeline—not because we had to move,” Wanda said.

Finding the Perfect Fit at Patriots Colony

The Sills explored multiple options before deciding on Patriots Colony. They considered staying in Yorktown, moving closer to their daughter in Maryland and even other senior living communities.

But in the end, Williamsburg—and Patriots Colony—felt like home.

With its variety of housing styles, amenities and active social scene, Patriots Colony checked all the boxes.

“We wanted to be around people who wanted to stay active,” Wanda said. “And social interaction was a big part of it.”

The couple opted for a villa, wanting a ground-floor home that would suit their lifestyle—and accommodate their beloved black Labrador, Bama.

Having had five black Labs throughout their life together, the Sills knew their new home needed space for their furry companion.

“Bama certainly enjoys Patriots Colony,” Rick said. “He’s never met a stranger and gets lots of treats.”

Living Life at Their Own Pace

Patriots Colony offers a wealth of activities, and the Sills have found ways to stay engaged while maintaining their personal balance.

Wanda, a self-proclaimed “joiner,” is involved in the Residents Council, volunteers regularly, and takes part in fitness classes.

“I have more on my calendar than Rick does,” she jokes. “But he enjoys trivia nights, guest speakers, and of course, golf.”

Rick’s favorite pastime is relaxing, he’ll tell you, but once he’s up, he enjoys a good game of golf and socializing with neighbors.

Together, they take advantage of the many recreational options: bocce ball, a putting green, a fitness center with classes, and a heated pool and hot tub.

“If you want to stay busy, you can be as active as you want to be,” Wanda said. “Or as laid back as you want.”

A True Sense of Community

Despite not knowing anyone when they first moved in, Rick and Wanda quickly found a welcoming environment.

“The people are what make this place special,” Wanda said. “The staff truly cares about us, and we’ve made wonderful new friends.”

Patriots Colony also offers a diverse range of backgrounds, bringing together not only military retirees but also professionals from NASA, the IRS, FEMA, and other organizations.

“You hear some very interesting stories,” Rick said, especially over dinner. The dining setup encourages socialization, with open seating that allows residents to mix and meet new people every night.

“It’s really laid back, not stuffy or formal at all,” Wanda said. “It’s a little bit like being back in college—just without the tests!”

Planning for the Future

For the Sills, moving to Patriots Colony was as much about enjoying the present as it was about securing peace of mind for the future.

“We really only wanted to move once more if possible,” says Wanda. “This community allows us to maintain our independence while also having the support we need if we ever require more assistance.”

Their children fully support their decision, knowing their parents are happy, safe and surrounded by friends.

“We’ve alleviated a lot of decision-making for them,” Wanda said. “They don’t have to worry about us.”

No Regrets, Just Enjoyment

Rick may have taken a little convincing to move at first, but in the end, it was the people that won him over.

“The friends we’ve made here have made all the difference,” he said.

The Sills appreciate the convenience and sense of freedom that comes with their decision. With no house maintenance, a vibrant social scene and the ability to travel whenever they please, they’ve found the perfect balance.

“Come on down,” Rick said with a grin. “It’s great!”

And Wanda? She wouldn’t change a thing.

“It was a great decision,” she said. “We love our home, our friends, and the lifestyle we’ve built here.”

With Bama happily making his rounds, treats in hand, and the couple enjoying every moment of their newfound freedom, the Sills are proof that planning ahead can lead to a life that’s both fulfilling and fun.