Who We Are
A Life Defined by
Possibilities
Operating as both Merrill Gardens and Truewood by Merrill across the US, we provide seniors with an active living community offering a variety of unique Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care lifestyle options. As a private, family-owned company, we enjoy a level of autonomy and independence that lets us say “Yes” to residents and team members. This helps us deliver for our family of residents every day – because we believe everyone deserves a life defined by possibilities, not limitations.
Our Legacy
Welcome to Our Family
Our dedication to our residents and their families comes from the deep roots of our fifth-generation family-owned company. Our founder, Richard Dwight (RD) Merrill, came to the Pacific Northwest in the 1890s to establish timeber holdings. An innovator and one of the first to practice sustainable forestry, R.D.'s tradition of attention and thoughtfulness grew to include the business of caring for people.
We honor this legacy with our family of senior living communities, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. We treat residents and team members as part of our extended family, providing a supportive and welcoming environment.
Connection is at the heart of a fulfilling life and we create opportunities to discover meaning, experience joy, and find fulfillment in an enriching atmosphere. No matter where you are in life’s journey, we look forward to welcoming you or your loved one home at Merrill Gardens.
This Is Who We Are. This Is What We Do.
The Merrill Gardens Approach
Consultative
Our residents have complicated needs. And as a fifth-generation business with over a quarter-century of history serving seniors, we have the expertise to handle a wide range of challenges – whether they’re financial, medical, or personal.
Vibrant
It’s been said that “it’s not the years in your life, but the life in your years, that count.” We approach our work with enthusiasm, energy, and a desire to make everything and every day count.
Thoughtful
Everything we do is in service to our residents, and we do our best to make a positive difference in their lives. We always try to anticipate their needs and desires, we care for their well-being, and we never forget that the smallest of gestures can matter the most.
Real
We feel familiar, like you’ve known us forever. We are approachable, inviting, and encouraging. We aren’t in this business for just a paycheck, it’s our passion – we genuinely care about seniors, their happiness, and well-being.
Brave
We are leaders, not followers – not afraid to do things differently. We are innovators, always striving to improve the quality of life for our residents. And we believe it’s better to take a chance than to never try anything new.
We are proud to provide two unique yet complementing options within our family of communities: Merrill Gardens and Truewood by Merrill.
Each of our senior living communities offers high-quality services and personalized care programs along with distinct amenities and features to meet the individual needs of our residents.
At both Merrill Gardens and Truewood by Merrill, our focus is always on the people who live and work in our communities. You can see it in the people we hire, in the communities we create, and in the ways we connect with your family. We're here to help you find the community that best complements your lifestyle.
Meet Our
Leadership Team
Cole Wright
Chairman, R.D. Merrill Company
Tana Gall
President, Merrill Gardens
Jason Childers
Chief Operating Officer
Morei Lingle
Chief Administrative Officer
Doug Spear
Chief Financial Officer
Meet Our
HERO Award Winners
Create Experiences for Our Residents
Join Our Merrill Gardens Team
We are leaders and innovators, always striving to improve the quality of life for our residents. Expand your career potential by joining our Merrill Gardens team today.

