A Faith Deepened: Mary Frances Horton’s Journey at Santa Marta
Learn how Mary Frances Horton’s faith deepened at Santa Marta through community life, spiritual service, and bringing Communion to residents who live in Health Care.
When residents from Santa Marta were invited to Fox 4 News, they brought something with them that can’t be staged: genuine warmth, connection, and the feeling of home that defines life at Santa Marta.
The segment offered an authentic, resident-driven perspective on what it’s like to be part of our nonprofit, faith-based senior living community — and why so many older adults across Johnson County, KS, and the greater Kansas City area consider Santa Marta their top choice.
Santa Marta sits on 45 beautiful acres in Olathe, Kansas. As a nonprofit and faith-based Life Care community, our mission centers around service, hospitality, and spiritual well-being.
We have 138 apartments and 24 villas, and we’re a Life Care retirement community. You move into independent living, and if you ever need a higher level of care — assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing — it’s here for you. We also offer direct admittance to health services at Santa Marta.
For many older adults and families in Johnson County, having this full continuum on one campus is peace of mind they can count on as they plan their future.
During the segment, residents Judy and Donna shared their experiences — and their stories say more than any brochure ever could.
Donna first discovered Santa Marta 13 years ago at a luncheon on rightsizing. She wasn’t even looking for senior living at the time, but something about Santa Marta stayed with her.
“I fell in love with Santa Marta 13 years ago. My husband wasn’t ready then. But after a fall and some health concerns, we knew it was time. And I didn’t want to look anywhere else.”
Two years later, she and her husband moved in and found exactly what they were hoping for.
Judy and her husband toured several communities. But they kept coming back to one.
“We liked the way it felt. People were always smiling and they seemed happy. We liked knowing that the different levels of care were here if we needed them.”
For Judy, the decision became clear: Santa Marta felt right.
Residents describe the lifestyle at Santa Marta as active, friendly, and flexible. Whether you want a full calendar or quiet, relaxing days, there’s a rhythm here for every preference.
Judy shared a glimpse of their first six weeks:
Santa Marta’s Tuscan-inspired architecture and warm interior spaces naturally bring people together — at dinner, in the hallways, during activities, and at resident-led groups.
Again and again, residents highlight the same thing: the community.
“Everyone there has a story. You eat with different people every night. People are kind, friendly, and welcoming.”
Santa Marta also hosts dances, themed events, and even a senior prom — proof that joy and connection don’t retire.
And for many, the lifestyle brings real freedom:
“I haven’t cooked a meal in a year and a half. We have weekly housekeeping. It’s the best of all worlds.”
Both residents offered heartfelt guidance for seniors and families exploring options:
“We just couldn’t get away from Santa Marta. It felt right from the start.”
If you’re beginning to explore senior living options in Johnson County or Kansas City, Santa Marta is a community where neighbors become friends, services bring ease to everyday life, and the future feels more secure.
To schedule a tour or request information, contact one of our senior living counselors today.
We’d be happy to show you around and introduce you to the residents who help make Santa Marta such a special place to call home.
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