Scott Jurek
Originally from Detroit, Michigan, Scott just recently moved with his wife to The Villages. Having lived all his life in Michigan, Scott made it a goal years ago to move and eventually retire in Florida. Scott is an avid sports fan and felt working for the Recreation and Parks Department would be a perfect fit. He enjoys the energy and enthusiasm of all of the staff he has met so far and the same can be said of all the residents that he has met.
Lisa Belcher
Originally from Livonia Michigan, Lisa received her Bachelor of Science degree from Madonna University in 1990. She worked for the University of Michigan as a Registered Nurse for 33 years working in various departments but specializing in Pediatric Critical Care. Lisa moved to the Villages in 2024 and started working for the Recreation & Parks Department as a Recreation Assistant. She truly enjoys working where she lives and meeting The Villages residents and guests.
Stacey Taylor
Originally from Long Island, New York, Stacey moved to the Villages in June 2024 to be closer to family. After a career in restaurant management and teaching, Stacey has been working for the recreation department since October 2024. Stacey enjoys golfing, boating and watching the gorgeous sunsets of Florida. Strong teamwork and comradery are what she enjoys the most about working for the Recreation and Parks department. Stacey loves helping residents and seeing how happy they are living their best lives.
Michael Foster
Michael is originally from Indiana and has lived in several states spanning California to Florida. Now, he resides in The Villages to be near to and support his parents. He holds an Associate’s degree from Chaffey College and a Massage license for 25 years. His career highlights are Franchise HQ Operations and Training, Human and Equine Massage Therapy, and Ballroom/Latin Dance Instruction. Hobbies include dancing, gardening, cooking, fishing, and kayaking. His commitment to The Villages lifestyle comes from his passion to help people celebrate their youthful spirit, stay active and healthy, and live with a sense of purpose and passion.
Shelby Barone
Originally from Madisonville, Kentucky, Shelby moved to Sumter County, Florida, in August 2024. He attended Western Michigan University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management in 2023. Since September 2024, Shelby has worked for The Villages in the Golf Maintenance Department at Shallow Creek. Shelby enjoys his time in Florida and appreciates the variety of adventures it offers, from kayaking in crystal-clear springs to visiting the Ringling Museum. He says the best part about working in Recreation & Parks is being able to work outdoors.
John Romero
Originally from Farmington Hills, Michigan, John and his wife attended a Lifestyle Visit in May 2023 and decided to purchase their retirement dream home in December of the same year. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Management from the University of Phoenix, earned in 2017. John says the best part about working in Recreation & Parks is getting to know the residents.
Shawn Hess
Originally from Xenia, Ohio, Shawn earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a focus in Management from Cedarville University in 1990. Later, in 1997, he earned a Master of Divinity from Baptist Bible Seminary. His journey continues to be truly inspiring. Shawn says the best part of working in Recreation & Parks is the opportunity to engage with the community and promote a fun, active lifestyle.
Colin St. Germain
Originally from Fairfax, Virginia, Colin St. Germain has lived in Sumter County since 2007. He attended The Villages Charter School and earned his associate degree from the College of Central Florida. He has been working for The Villages Recreation & Parks Department since 2018. Colin’s favorite recreational activity is playing basketball. He says the best part about working in Recreation & Parks is getting to meet and interact with the residents and their guests.
Julie Patterson
Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Julie Patterson has called Florida home for more than 20 years. In 2017, “the mountains called,” and Julie refined her skills in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Her love for Florida and her family eventually brought her back to the Sunshine State. Julie enjoys hiking, biking, and boating; however, her favorite recreational activity is swimming. “I love being in and on the water, and swimming is an enjoyable, healthy activity that you can continue for a lifetime,” she says. Julie shares that the best part about working in Recreation & Parks is making meaningful connections with our Villagers each day.
Linda Bateman
Originally from Virginia Beach, VA, Linda moved to The Villages in 2019 from Lynchburg, VA after a career in real estate. Family created the reason for Linda to visit, but The Villages lifestyle created the reason to move here. Linda’s favorite ways to spend her days are playing pickleball, enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf and kayaking the many interesting springs and rivers that Florida has to offer. The favorite part of the job with The Villages Recreation & Parks is all the activities, groups, and people that I get to be involved with on a daily basis. Seeing residents living their best lives and sharing this amazing place we call home with their children and grandchildren.
