Who We Are
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Discover What Senior Living is Like at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza
The Abbey at Westminster Plaza is a leading senior living community in Houston, offering luxurious independent living, assisted living, and specialized memory care services. We take pride in being one of the only family-owned and operated senior living communities in the area, with three generations of experience dedicated to providing exceptional care and support. Our family’s hands-on approach, honed over decades, ensures every resident feels valued, comfortable, and cared for.
Our History
A Legacy of Caring and Excellence in Texas Assisted Living
The Abbey at Westminster Plaza, one of Houston’s premier retirement communities, upholds a tradition of excellence shaped by a family-owned legacy that spans over 70 years. Located at the intersection of Richmond Avenue and Westminster Plaza Drive, our beautifully designed three-story community offers convenient access to shopping centers, restaurants, medical offices, and nearby hospitals, making it an ideally situated choice for senior adults.
Our story begins with Mrs. Ottis Lake, a visionary professional nurse from Jacksonville, Texas, who dedicated her life to providing the best possible care for the aged and infirm. Believing she received a divine calling to care for those in need, Mrs. Lake faced remarkable challenges, including working multiple jobs to support her four children while pursuing her nursing license.
Her early efforts were nothing short of revolutionary. At a time when government assistance was unavailable, seniors in need often lived in substandard conditions.
Mrs. Lake’s passion and high standards quickly earned her recognition. With the backing of prominent supporters like Tyler oilman Mr. J. Burns Brown and his wife, she opened her first upscale care facility, which included unique features such as a chapel, beauty/barber shop, and dedicated treatment areas. This modest 54-bed community raised the bar in senior care, setting a historical benchmark for excellence.
Driven to improve the quality of care for all, Mrs. Lake successfully lobbied for minimum standards and licensing regulations in senior living, an effort that shaped the landscape of senior care across Texas. Her vision encompassed everyone, regardless of their circumstances. She provided clothing and incidentals and even made funeral arrangements for those in need, ensuring compassionate care for all.
Her legacy of care continued with her two sons, who expanded the family’s vision. Together, they developed larger, state-of-the-art healthcare communities, blending innovation with compassion. Her youngest son founded American Health Services, Inc., now the general partner of Founder’s Commercial, Ltd., which masterfully developed The Abbey at Westminster Plaza to reflect Mrs. Lake’s lifelong commitment to senior care.
Today, The Abbey at Westminster Plaza is a shining example of her vision. Our modern, elegant design includes luxurious amenities such as an indoor pool and HydroWorx therapy pool, as well as spacious apartments — the largest in the Houston area. Generations of the Lake family have built upon her foundation, creating a retirement community that emphasizes peace, comfort, and exceptional care.
The senior care expertise of the Lake family, combined with their partnerships with the Brown family and dedication to excellence, has allowed The Abbey to thrive as a hallmark of quality care. The Abbey honors Mrs. Lake’s dream of enhancing lives through compassionate service.
We invite you and your family to visit The Abbey at Westminster Plaza, where our legacy of excellence and commitment to caring is reflected in every detail. Experience firsthand why we are Houston’s choice for senior living. Arrange your tour today!
Our Senior Living Team
Meet our team of senior living professionals who form the family atmosphere of our Houston community. Get to know us and say hello when you see us. We’d love to get to know you!
Leadership
David Lake
President
David Lake, Ottis Lake’s youngest son, graduated from Baylor University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and SMU Law School in the 1960s. He resides with his wife, Shirley, in Tyler, Texas, and is a proud father of four children, 14 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
David has been active in the ownership and management of senior care facilities since 1965. He started in long-term care during his senior year in law school while holding down a full-time job as a business manager for a nursing facility. David’s involvement has included owning and operating eight nursing facilities with 1,000 beds. Six of these long-term care facilities were Skilled and Medicare Certified and were developed and built by Mr. Lake. In 1979, three of these facilities with 280 beds were sold, and in 1994, about the same time David became more involved in banking, the remaining properties were sold. During that period, David was an active member of the Texas Health Care Association, having served as Vice-President and chairman of various committees, including the Legal Advisory Committee and the Bylaws Committee.
Jona Lake
Vice-President of Property Management and Development
Jona Lake, son of David Lake, graduated from Baylor University with a B.B.A. in real estate and entrepreneurship. He began his real estate career while still a student, gaining experience in leasing, selling, and managing diverse property types. After graduation, Jona worked with prominent real estate firms in Dallas, earning his broker’s license and managing over $10 million in commercial property listings.
Jona joined his family in 1997 to assist in site selection and development of an assisted living facility in Houston, where he gained extensive senior housing industry experience. Since 2005, as Vice President of Property Management and Development, Jona has led budgeting, capital expenditures, and facility design projects, including overseeing the development and construction of Phase II at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza. He thrives in his team-oriented family business, balancing property management and marketing responsibilities while collaborating with his sister on operations. Jona lives in Tyler, Texas, with his wife and four children.
Kristi Lake Fuller
Vice-President of Operations
Kristi Lake Fuller, daughter of David Lake, holds a B.A. from Baylor University and a Master’s of Science in Gerontology. Her passion for senior living began early, inspired by her grandmother’s dedication to serving older adults. Kristi gained hands-on experience in her family’s nursing facilities, progressing from candy-striper to administrative roles.
After completing her studies, Kristi managed assisted living operations at Parkway Village in Little Rock, where she earned certifications in nursing home and assisted living administration. She returned to Texas in 2000 to help her family establish The Abbey at Westminster Plaza.
Kristi is married to JD Fuller and has four children, a son-in-law, and one grandson. As Vice President of Operations, Kristi is committed to delivering exceptional service and operational excellence.
Ashley Bulman
Chief Operating Officer
Ashley earned a degree in Long-Term Care Administration from Texas State University, which provided her with a strong foundation in the unique challenges and opportunities within senior care. Her strategic leadership has consistently led to improved resident satisfaction, operational performance, and the cultivation of lasting relationships with families and the community.
Ashley is a seasoned healthcare leader who has worked in the senior living industry since 1997. Currently serving as the Regional Director of American Health Services, Ashley brings over two decades of expertise in senior care, healthcare management, and operational leadership. In her current role, she focuses on building a compassionate, well-trained staff, optimizing health service delivery, and fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for both residents and their families. In 2000, Ashley was a founding member of the Alzheimer’s Support Auxiliary for People, an organization supporting the Alzheimer’s Alliance of East Texas. She has been deeply involved with the Alzheimer’s Association since 2002, contributing through fundraising efforts, and training groups.
Ashley holds a Nursing Facility Administration License, Assisted Living Certification, and is a Qualified Dementia Care Specialist. Additionally, she is a Master Trainer of the Best Friends Approach for Alzheimer’s Care. Through these credentials, she is actively involved in the education and training of various organizations and civic groups, ensuring that caregivers and communities are equipped with the best practices for dementia and senior care.
A champion for continuous improvement, Ashley is dedicated to advancing senior care through innovative approaches and evidence-based practices. She ensures that the facilities under her leadership maintain the highest standards of care. Outside of her professional role, Ashley remains actively involved in community initiatives and advocacy work, furthering her mission to improve the lives of older adults.
Ashley and her husband, Brian, live in Tyler, Texas. They have two adult children, Blair, who resides in Austin, and Brayden, who lives in Houston. Ashley and Brian enjoy weekend getaways to visit family, making time for connection and relaxation in their busy lives.
Kelvin Fox
Chief Information Officer
Kelvin is a seasoned technology executive with over 25 years of experience in software engineering, enterprise systems integration, enterprise application development, cybersecurity, and secure DevOps. He holds a B.S. in Computer Science from Stephen F. Austin State University and has built a career that spans database programming, software development, and leadership in enterprise technology solutions.
Kelvin began his career as an Oracle Database Programmer and Software Developer, specializing in database systems, software development and enterprise applications. He and a partner later moved on and co-founded a startup called OneMap. This startup focused on developing a commercial desktop GIS mapping software application that included digital parcel boundary data for the commercial and residential real estate markets. As CTO and partner, he played a pivotal role in the product’s success, leading to a successful exit.
Following his entrepreneurial venture, Kelvin joined CGI Technologies Inc., where he spent 16 years as a Senior Consultant, managing the Geospatial Mapping Software Solutions program. Under his leadership, he delivered automated mapping systems for Oil and Gas clients, Oil and Gas Royalty, Lease, and Trust management software—both domestic and international—as well as Federal and State government agencies and commercial organizations. His innovative approach to GIS process automation resulted in annual cost savings of $70K for his clients.
Now serving as Chief Information Officer at American Health Services, Kelvin is dedicated to delivering secure and stable IT systems that support the operations of The Abbey and its residents. His expertise in enterprise IT strategy, cybersecurity, and systems integration ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of technology-driven healthcare solutions.
Kelvin lives in Tyler, Texas and is married to Annette Fox and has two daughters.
The Abbey at Westminster Plaza’s Team of Senior Living Professionals
Executive Director
Maria brings extensive experience across independent living, assisted living, memory care, long-term care, and skilled nursing to The Abbey at Westminster Plaza. Before transitioning to senior care, she spent over 20 years in print and digital marketing at the Houston Chronicle. Maria's passion for connecting with seniors and hearing their remarkable stories inspired her to pursue a career in senior living.
A Fort Bend County resident since 1986, Maria has been actively involved in her community. She served ten years on the Stafford Planning Commission, where she helped establish Fountains Park. Maria has also held leadership positions on several nonprofit boards, including Hispanic associations. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, photography, and writing. Maria is a proud new grandmother to her first grandson.
Assisted Living Director
Rukayat brings over 16 years of health care experience to The Abbey at Westminster Plaza. Her background includes long-term care, hemodialysis, skilled nursing, assisted living, and memory care. Originally from New Jersey, Rukayat’s career has taken her to West Virginia and now Texas, where she’s been serving senior living communities in Victoria, Sugar Land, and Houston since 2013.
Rukayat lives in Rosenberg with her husband and three daughters. She is passionate about providing compassionate care to residents and supporting her team. Outside work, she enjoys cooking new recipes, watching basketball, and spending quality time with her family and friends.
Social Director
Meet Irina, Social Director of our independent living community. Irina has over a decade of experience in senior health care, activities and development at MorningStar Senior Living in Denver, Colorado, and most recently, at Village on the Park Steeplechase in Houston, Texas. She moved to Houston with her husband and is still acclimating to the humidity!
Irina loves to organize and host special events, fundraisers, and plan meaningful activities to engage seniors. Irina’s calendar has included an art show featuring The Abbey at Westminster Plaza’s residents’ collectibles, a dog show, “Pawject Runway,” Oktoberfest, jewelry making, watercolor classes, a published Abbey Cookbook, a vow renewal ceremony and other exciting events worthy of creating new and fun memories. In her personal life, Irina and her husband, Tony, are blessed to have identical baby boys.
Administrative Assistant
Karleann, our assisted living administrative assistant, was born and raised in Maracaibo, Venezuela. She graduated from U.P. Rafael Belloso Chacin with a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2020. Karleann moved to the United States in 2021 and brought her eagerness to learn, passion for seniors, and hardworking energy to The Abbey. Away from work, Karleann loves to sing and spend time in green outdoor spaces. She is continually growing and learning in her position with The Abbey and strives to serve the residents in their daily lives.
Director of Dining Services
Roger Elkhouri, CEC, CE, is an award-winning chef certified by the American Culinary Federation ACF as an Executive Chef CEC and Certified Evaluator CE. Chef Elkhouri has won numerous medals in ACF Culinary Sanctioned Competitions. He holds a culinary degree from the ART Institute of Houston. Chef Elkhouri has worked in the culinary field for over 28 years at various restaurants, hotels, country clubs, college food service restaurants, and other areas. Chef Elkhouri has taught many culinary classes for professionals and home cooks. We are excited to have such a passionate Chef at The Abbey who takes pride in serving the residents. Visit The Abbey and meet Chef Elkhouri!
Fitness Director
Kathi became a part of the Abbey family in 2016 as an Assistant Activity Director. In January 2019, she became the Fitness Director for the Abbey. Kathi has a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s in kinesiology from Lamar University. She spent 36 years in education before bringing her bright smile and endless energy to the lives of our seniors! Kathi loves to sing patriotic songs and spontaneously breaks into some dance moves for the residents at a moment’s notice! She has two children and five grandchildren who are her whole world. She and her husband, Glen, have been married for 49 years and are looking forward to the next 49! Kathi is beyond excited to be able to bring quality fitness/wellness programs to the residents of the Abbey to improve their quality of life and extend their longevity.
Maintenance Director
Gerardo is a maintenance professional with over 14 years of experience supporting luxury retirement and family residential communities. His experience includes HVAC, electrical, plumbing, painting, appliance maintenance, pool service, and hardware installation. Gerardo ensures proper upkeep of every apartment, per The Abbey’s community standards, and oversees the property grounds. Gerardo is an excellent fit for The Abbey because of his knowledge of prioritizing requests, multitasking, making cost-effective decisions without affecting quality, and ensuring timely delivery of work orders while keeping residents' safety and living experience as a top priority. We appreciate his skills and are happy he joined our team at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza!
Karleann Leite
Administrative Assistant
Karleann, our assisted living administrative assistant, was born and raised in Maracaibo, Venezuela. She graduated from U.P. Rafael Belloso Chacin with a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2020. Karleann moved to the United States in 2021 and brought her eagerness to learn, passion for seniors, and hardworking energy to The Abbey. Away from work, Karleann loves to sing and spend time in green outdoor spaces. She is continually growing and learning in her position with The Abbey and strives to serve the residents in their daily lives.
Roger Elkhouri
Director of Dining Services
Roger Elkhouri, CEC, CE, is an award-winning chef certified by the American Culinary Federation ACF as an Executive Chef CEC and Certified Evaluator CE. Chef Elkhouri has won numerous medals in ACF Culinary Sanctioned Competitions. He holds a culinary degree from the ART Institute of Houston. Chef Elkhouri has worked in the culinary field for over 28 years at various restaurants, hotels, country clubs, college food service restaurants, and other areas. Chef Elkhouri has taught many culinary classes for professionals and home cooks. We are excited to have such a passionate Chef at The Abbey who takes pride in serving the residents. Visit The Abbey and meet Chef Elkhouri!
Kathi Hill
Fitness Director
Kathi became a part of the Abbey family in 2016 as an Assistant Activity Director. In January 2019, she became the Fitness Director for the Abbey. Kathi has a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s in kinesiology from Lamar University. She spent 36 years in education before bringing her bright smile and endless energy to the lives of our seniors! Kathi loves to sing patriotic songs and spontaneously breaks into some dance moves for the residents at a moment’s notice! She has two children and five grandchildren who are her whole world. She and her husband, Glen, have been married for 49 years and are looking forward to the next 49! Kathi is beyond excited to be able to bring quality fitness/wellness programs to the residents of the Abbey to improve their quality of life and extend their longevity.
Gerardo Parra
Maintenance Director
Gerardo is a maintenance professional with over 14 years of experience supporting luxury retirement and family residential communities. His experience includes HVAC, electrical, plumbing, painting, appliance maintenance, pool service, and hardware installation. Gerardo ensures proper upkeep of every apartment, per The Abbey’s community standards, and oversees the property grounds. Gerardo is an excellent fit for The Abbey because of his knowledge of prioritizing requests, multitasking, making cost-effective decisions without affecting quality, and ensuring timely delivery of work orders while keeping residents’ safety and living experience as a top priority. We appreciate his skills and are happy he joined our team at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza!
Executive Director
Assisted Living Director
Social Director
Administrative Assistant
Director of Dining Services
Fitness Director
Maintenance Director
Why Choose The Abbey at Westminster Plaza?
Easily accessible from Beltway 8 and just two blocks west of Royal Oaks Country Club, The Abbey at Westminster Plaza sits on eight acres of meticulously landscaped grounds. We offer a variety of lifestyle options, including assisted living, dementia care, and a newly added four-story, 141-unit independent living community.
Three Generations of Family Ownership
Unlike many senior living communities, we’re independently owned and operated with one location and one focus—your well-being. No corporate umbrellas or shareholders here—just personalized, attentive care.
Award-Winning Dining
Our culinary program has been awarded Best Senior Living Dining by the Senior Resource Guide for three consecutive years, with room service and meal delivery options to accommodate every resident’s needs.
World-Class Amenities
Enjoy a wide variety of amenities, including our charming bistro, sports lounge, immersive theater, hands-on arts and crafts activity room, full-service salon, and a nostalgic general store offering ice cream service.
Engaging Activities Program
Stay active and connected with a full calendar of events, including weekend activities and off-site social excursions designed to foster friendships and memorable moments.
Spa and Wellness Center
Our heated indoor pool, cutting-edge Hydroworx aquatic therapy pool, Technogym equipped weight room, Dinoflex indoor track, and prioritize your physical and mental well-being. We are the only senior living community to feature this pool and track.
Spacious and Comfortable Residences
We offer some of the largest floor plans in the Houston area. Every apartment features a central air system, allowing residents to control room temperatures to suit their preferences.
Comprehensive Health Services
Residents benefit from on-site visits by physicians, therapists, dentists, and podiatrists, ensuring seamless access to quality care. We also provide transportation for appointments to make healthcare convenient.
Proximity to Medical Facilities
Located across the street from West Houston Medical Center, our community provides peace of mind with easy access to top-tier healthcare professionals and emergency services.
Inclement Weather Preparedness
Our assisted living building is a steel structure located on the same power grid as a hospital. With generators on-site, we’re fully equipped to maintain safety and comfort during severe weather conditions.
What is Senior Living Like in Our Houston Community?
Our senior apartments in the Houston Memorial area boast some of the largest floor plans available. Each apartment is fully customized with luxurious features such as:
- Granite countertops
- Full-size kitchens with stainless steel appliances
- Front-loading washers and dryers
- Wood floors and crown molding
- Individual climate controls
What is Assisted Living Like at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza?
Assisted living provides your loved ones the perfect balance of independence and support. Our dedicated team offers personalized assistance with daily activities such as medication reminders, bathing, dressing, grooming, and housekeeping. This support ensures residents maintain their independence while having access to the care they need. Residents enjoy:
- Personalized care plans
- Social and recreational activities
- Luxurious living spaces
- Three chef-prepared meals per day
What is Memory Care Like in Kensington?
Our memory care services at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza, known as Kensington, are designed specifically for individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive conditions. Our compassionate team provides a structured environment that promotes a sense of purpose and belonging. Memory care at The Abbey includes:
- Specialized activity programs
- Secure and nurturing environment to move freely
- A dedicated team trained in the latest memory care techniques
Experience Worry-Free Living
From the moment you enter our Houston senior living community, you’ll feel at home with our warm and friendly team ready to assist you. We can’t wait for you or a loved one to experience retirement living with luxurious amenities, beautiful apartments, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Contact Us
Ready to learn more about assisted living at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza? Contact us today to schedule a tour and experience the exceptional lifestyle that awaits you and your loved ones.
Contact Us
Ready to learn more about assisted living at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza? Contact us today to schedule a tour and experience the exceptional lifestyle that awaits you and your loved ones.
