Rooted in Nature, Learning and Community: Resident Spotlight on Ed & Daphne Messersmith

Ed and Daphne Messersmith approach life with curiosity, intention and a deep appreciation for learning—and that same thoughtful spirit guided their decision to move to Cornwall Manor. Before settling on their home here in 2016, they carefully researched 15 retirement communities and visited seven in person. What stood out immediately was Cornwall Manor’s natural beauty, welcoming atmosphere and sense of possibility. The wooded setting, peaceful neighborhoods and proximity to the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail made it feel like the right place to put down roots.

Living on Gatehouse Lane, Ed and Daphne value the front-porch lifestyle and the sense of connection with neighbors, as well as the easy access to nature just steps from their door. These everyday joys continue to affirm their decision to choose Cornwall Manor as a place where they could remain active, engaged and inspired.

Daphne’s life reflects a deep commitment to growth, education, service—and faith. She earned a degree in urban planning from Washington University in St. Louis and went on to work in a nursery greenhouse and as a teacher while raising three sons. Central to her life has also been her vocation as a priest, a calling through which she served the church for more than 34 years as a parish minister, school chaplain and teacher. It has been, in her words, a holy journey and one that continues today as she provides occasional supply ministry locally at St. Luke’s in Lebanon.

Later in life—after her children were grown—Daphne returned to school several times, demonstrating her belief that learning truly is a lifelong pursuit. Her studies included environmental education through the Penn State Extension’s Master Watershed Steward program, where she focused on ecological concerns beyond traditional gardening.

At Cornwall Manor, Daphne remains vibrant and involved. She enjoys walking Flora, their beloved Cockapoo, playing pickleball, working in the greenhouse, gardening with native perennials, ringing handbells and participating in book club. She previously served as chairperson of the Residents Association Tree/Environment Committee and continues to support environmental and educational programming throughout the campus. An enthusiastic reader, Daphne especially enjoys murder mysteries and historical fiction.

Ed grew up on a farm in central Pennsylvania, an experience that shaped his strong connection to stewardship and community. Over a 38-year career, he served in parish and college settings, often helping guide organizations through times of challenge and transition. One of his most meaningful experiences was a mission trip to western Uganda, where he assisted in establishing a medical clinic that has since grown into a hospital—an outcome he remains deeply grateful to have witnessed.

After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2008, Ed retired and eventually turned his reflective nature toward writing. His book, Birth, Death and the Journey in Between: Making Sense of Nonsense as Quantum Energy Dances with Spirituality, took five years to complete and explores the shared threads of the human experience—trauma, joy, healing, curiosity and love—through both personal insight and scientific wonder. Ed will be sharing more about the book during a resident review in May, with all proceeds benefiting Benevolent Care.

Ed enjoys pickleball, walking, fly fishing, reading poetry, attending theology gatherings and thoughtful conversation. Together, Ed and Daphne enjoy traveling to the seashore, visiting friends, exploring new ideas and doting on Flora. With children and grandchildren who remain central to their lives, the Messersmiths continue to embody a spirit of curiosity, compassion and engagement—qualities that make Cornwall Manor not just their home, but the right place for this meaningful chapter of life.