A Heart for Service

August 2025

Laura Anderson

Pathfinder Series: Mardie Toney

A Heart for Service.

Senior Village at SaddleBrooke has been deeply enriched by the generous efforts of many dedicated volunteers. Among them, one individual stands out for her lasting impact, heartfelt service, and tireless commitment: Mardie Toney.

Mardie and her husband, Chris, moved to SaddleBrooke from Newport News, Virginia, 21 years ago. Drawn by the promise of beautiful surroundings and the opportunity to be closer to their eldest daughter and two grandchildren, the couple embraced retirement in SaddleBrooke. Their family circle grew quickly with their second daughter moving to Tucson. Now all four of their grandchildren live nearby.

Mardie’s journey with Senior Village began nearly a decade ago and has been as inspiring as it is multifaceted. After reading about the organization in the SaddleBag Notes in 2016, she reached out and met with founder Gary Hammond. Mardie quickly became immersed in the mission, attending workshops to learn more—and from that point forward, she never looked back.

Her initial volunteer role was with the Membership Team, where her leadership talents soon led her to head the team. She also contributed to the Moving on Team, offering support to members navigating major life transitions. As her involvement deepened, Mardie was invited to join the Board of Directors. She recalls, “At that time, we were small enough that Board members could also be team leaders.” But by 2018, the organization was expanding rapidly, and Mardie turned her full attention to board service.

One of her most impactful contributions came during the height of the pandemic. In 2020 and 2021, Mardie organized a team of volunteers to run a vaccine clinic for the community. The event became a major milestone for both Senior Village and SaddleBrooke. “People wanted to join just to support Senior Village during such an uncertain time,” she recalls. “It really grew during and after that.” And the numbers tell the story: membership rose from 793 in 2019 to 1,736 by 2022, while the volunteer force expanded from 173 to 318.

Beyond logistics and leadership, Mardie also brought joy to the community. She helped organize the beloved Music Matinees with JoAnn Wilbour. What began in the space between HOA 1’s  Agave Lounge and the restaurant soon drew such enthusiastic crowds that it moved to larger venues—first HOA 2 meeting rooms, then the Ballroom, and finally, the DesertView Theater, where it remains today.

Mardie served on the Board of Directors for six years, holding the role of Chair for the last two. “That was my most memorable time with Senior Village,” she says. “We grew not just in numbers, but in our responsibilities to our members. The Board evolved to meet the needs of a growing community.” From writing protocols to serving as a driver with the Going My Way program, Mardie has had a hand in nearly every aspect of Senior Village’s growth.

“Senior Village is such an important part of SaddleBrooke,” Mardie emphasizes. “You never know when you’ll fall off your bike or be unable to drive. It’s never too early to join. Being a member helps support the organization. You don’t have to volunteer to be a member, and you don’t have to be a member to volunteer. It’s a good mix.”

Even after stepping down from the Board, Mardie continues to give her time and energy. She creates name tags, drives members to appointments, and assists with volunteer training. She and Chris also deliver the SaddleBag Notes in their unit—a small act with a big impact.

When asked what keeps her involved, her answer is simple and heartfelt:
“Senior Village is a good place to be involved in a good community.”