Greencroft Communities Stories

Love takes many forms. Sometimes it arrives early and stays for a lifetime. Other times, it grows quietly—through shared meals, easy laughter, and the comfort of truly knowing one another. At Hamilton Grove, love is woven into everyday life, creating stories that warm the heart and remind us that connection is what truly makes a place feel like home.

Bob and Sherry Gray’s love story began quietly, sparked by a mutual friend and sealed in a single meeting. Then, just as quickly, it paused. Bob became ill for several weeks, and without explanation, Sherry assumed the door had closed before the relationship had a chance to open. Life moved on—or so it seemed.

But love, as they would learn, has a patient rhythm.

When the timing was right, their story resumed—and this time, it stayed. On October 3, 1970, Bob and Sherry were married, beginning a partnership that has now spanned 55 years. What began with a missed moment became a lifetime of moments, layered with faith, resilience, and devotion.

A Love Rooted in Faith, Carried by Conversation

Long before their official introduction at a Youth for Christ rally in Pennsylvania—where Bob served on the board—they had already moved in similar circles of faith. Bob believes it was faith that drew them together. Sherry smiles and says it was love at first sight, adding that she would have married him right then and there.

Their early years were marked by frequent moves due to Bob’s work, each relocation requiring flexibility, patience, and trust. Eventually, Indiana claimed them for good. Both of their daughters married Indiana men, and just like that, Indiana became home.
Through every move and milestone, Bob and Sherry leaned on what has always sustained them: honest conversation. They believe in talking things through, listening carefully, and never letting problems linger. Communication, they say, has been the steady thread holding them together.

Travel has been their greatest shared joy. Where they went never mattered. Every trip became a favorite simply because they were together, creating memories near and far that they still treasure.

Today, they are the proud parents of two daughters, grandparents to nine grandchildren, and great-grandparents to three great-grandchildren. They have called Hamilton Grove Villas home for 11 years and love the freedom it provides—traveling without worry, knowing home maintenance is taken care of, and finding peace of mind in knowing future support is available if needed.
Community is another part of what makes life here meaningful. Bob and Sherry enjoy campus activities, monthly restaurant outings with fellow villas residents, and staying involved in the men’s and women’s clubs at Chicago Trail Village.

Their advice to younger couples is simple and heartfelt: be kind to one another, and never go to bed angry.

Bob and Sherry Gray’s story is a reminder that when love and faith walk side by side, even a lifetime of change can feel like home.