Lifelong Gardener Brings Color to the Community

Originally published in the Ridgefield Patch. Read the full story here.

After a career that ranged from working as an ambassador for Aer Lingus to managing pharmaceutical clinical trials, Deirdre Maxted has found fulfillment in a more grounded pursuit: gardening.

Now a resident of Ridgefield Station Assisted Living, Maxted has become a familiar figure in the community’s courtyard, where she leads seasonal planting efforts in raised garden beds. Each spring, she works alongside other residents to cultivate a mix of marigolds, pansies, petunias, and herbs, creating colorful displays that brighten the outdoor space and provide fresh ingredients for the culinary team.

“Believe it or not, one of my favorite things about gardening is weeding,” Maxted said. “Because then you can see all the flowers.”

Born in Dublin, Ireland, Maxted grew up exploring city streets while finding tranquility in her family’s garden. After immigrating to the United States, she worked at Russell’s Garden Center in Wayland, MA, where she gained hands-on experience and was frequently among the top sales staff, according to a news release from Ridgefield Station.

“Many people would come in without a clue,” she recalled. “I would ask them a few questions and help them find the plants that would fit their needs and interests.”

After relocating to Ridgefield to be closer to her daughter, Maxted quickly became involved in Ridgefield Station’s gardening activities. When staff installed raised beds to enhance the courtyard, she was the first to volunteer.

“It has been amazing to see Deirdre get so involved in bringing the flower boxes to life and planting the different herbs and vegetables,” said Scott Schulte, Ridgefield Station’s EnrichedLIFE Director. “We could see how much it meant to her to continue gardening, and she has given back to the community in such a beautiful way.”

In addition to tomatoes and basil used by the kitchen staff, the flowers offer a daily splash of color for residents and visitors alike. For Maxted, the act of gardening is both a personal joy and a way to make the community feel more like home.

“What I love the most about flowers is the color they bring to people’s lives,” she said.

Ridgefield Station Senior Living offers nature, arts, and education-based programs for older adults.