South Carolina Baptist Ministries of Aging has completed the sale of its two senior living communities, Bethea in Darlington and Martha Franks in Laurens, to Covington Investments. The transaction closed July 31, 2026.
Operations of both communities are now led by Oakdale Senior Alliance, whose leadership team brings more than 200 years of combined experience in senior living. Oakdale hired the communities’ employees, allowing residents to continue receiving support from the teams they know.
“We are confident we selected an experienced organization that understands the importance of honoring the heritage of Bethea and Martha Franks while ensuring strong operations for the future,” said Tom Turner, president and CEO of South Carolina Baptist Ministries of Aging. “We are grateful to the residents, families, team members, churches and supporters who have been part of these communities.” South Carolina Baptist Ministries of Aging will continue to be a resource to Bethea and Martha Franks as both communities begin this new chapter under Covington Investments/Oakdale Senior Alliance.
“We are grateful and excited to carry on the mission of Bethea and Martha Franks alongside the community teammates,” said Cyndi Matheny, President of Oakdale Senior Alliance.
The completion of the sale also begins a planning process to determine the future direction of SCBMA’s ministry to older adults. A committee of representatives from both the SC Baptist Executive Board and the SCBMA Board consider opportunities to serve older adults and support senior adult ministry throughout South Carolina. The committee’s recommendations will be brought before the SC Baptist Convention messengers.
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Media Contact:
Tom Turner, President/CEO, SCBMA
tturner@scbma.com
803-227-6018
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