Mary Gran Nursing Center Named Best Nursing Care Facility in Sampson County
Liberty Health and Rehab is proud to share that Mary Gran Nursing Center has been named Best Nursing Care Facility in The Sampson Independent’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards. This community-driven recognition is a testament to the exceptional care, dedication and compassion demonstrated by the Mary Gran team every day.
The honor marks a return to the top spot for Mary Gran, which earned the distinction from 2021 through 2024 before receiving runner-up recognition in 2025. The award highlights Mary Gran’s continued commitment to providing high-quality care and an outstanding resident experience.
The competition remained strong this year, with Southwood Nursing and Rehabilitation Center earning runner-up honors after capturing the top award in 2025. Together, both communities continue to set a high standard for skilled nursing care in Sampson County and demonstrate Liberty Health and Rehab’s shared commitment to excellence.
Adding to their achievements, Mary Gran also earned a third-place finish in the Best Business in Sampson County category, an impressive milestone that underscores their positive impact, trusted reputation and deep roots within the community.
Recognizing Individual Excellence
The Sampson Independent Readers’ Choice Awards also highlighted the talented individuals who make Mary Gran a leading senior care provider:
Best Nurse: April Jackson, LPN, took home the top honor for Best Nurse in Sampson County. April celebrated her five-year anniversary with Mary Gran this past April. Reflecting on her work, she shared, “My favorite part of my job is being able to have one-on-one contact and interactions with residents and helping make a difference in their lives.”
Best Physical/Occupational Therapist: Ashley Fields, OT, placed second in the category for Best Physical/Occupational Therapist in Sampson County. Ashley has been a dedicated member of the Mary Gran team since 2017.
A Message from Leadership
“This recognition is an incredible honor to receive and represents the dedication, compassion and teamwork that defines Mary Gran Nursing Center,” shared Mary Gran Administrator Marilynn Spell. “I am proud to be part of a team that puts our residents first every day and strives for excellence in everything we do. This recognition inspires us to continue providing exceptional care, supporting one another and making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve. Thank you to everyone who made these achievements possible. We share this success together.”
A Commitment to Quality Care in Sampson County
Mary Gran and Southwood provide high-quality skilled nursing and rehabilitation services in a comfortable, supportive environment. Whether a resident is recovering from surgery or in need of long-term care, our experienced teams work together to support health, independence and overall well-being.
Both skilled care communities proudly offer:
- Short-term rehabilitation services
- Physical, occupational and speech therapy
- Long-term living
- Skilled nursing care
- Personalized treatment plans
- Compassionate, person-centered care
- Palliative, hospice and respite care
These Readers’ Choice Awards highlight Liberty Health and Rehab’s ongoing mission to set the standard for skilled nursing care in Sampson County and beyond. We are grateful for the trust placed in us by the Sampson County community and remain committed to delivering the highest level of service and support.
About Liberty Health and Rehab
Liberty Health and Rehab is a part of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.