What's its like to Retire in Oxford (aka DisneyWorld)

In 2001 when our daughter was looking at colleges to attend, we visited Ole Miss - two hours away from our small town in Tennessee. Being from out-of-state, we had not traveled around Mississippi very much. She was so impressed with the campus, and we were so impressed by the town – it was an instant decision for her and for us, like many of you reading this article!

Someone we knew characterized Oxford as “DisneyWorld” and we agree wholeheartedly. We bought a weekend condo in 2004. Oxford was still a magnet for us even after our daughter graduated. We purchased football season tickets, enjoyed regular table seatings at City Grocery, and attended events at the Ford Center. When our daughter moved BACK to Oxford in 2008 to prepare for her wedding, we upgraded to a condo near the square. So – when we retired in 2014 it was a foregone conclusion that we would move lock, stock and barrel to “DisneyWorld.”

Finding a house was an exercise in visiting all the various neighborhoods in town. If you have not ridden around to see the East, South, West and North opportunities, you need to contact a Realtor, fast! With so much to choose from, we settled on the Grand Oaks community since we both play golf and enjoy the views of the course.

Beyond playing golf together we have found a hidden treasure in Oxford for persons moving into the area. Oxford Newcomers Clubis a large compilation of diverse backgrounds of people who have been attracted to North Mississippi. There are social, educational, and recreational benefits to membership like book clubs, history lessons, bridge club, movie groups, plus plenty of opportunities to meet and EAT!

Another great group to stay active in the Oxford RSVPgroup done through the Oxford Park Commission. RSVP, one of the largest volunteer efforts in the nation, engages people age 55 and older in a diverse range of volunteer activities in and around Oxford. It’s a great way to meet others and stay active.

If you are bored in Oxford – it is your own fault. Honestly. The University has a full calendar from the music department, recitals, visiting professors, and tons of offerings at the Ford Center.

As a last point, we have found a vibrant and joyful church family here. It is wonderful to attend with our daughter, son-in-law, and two young grands.

Come on to DisneyWorld! You may even call it home too!