The former CEO of SavaSeniorCare, Tony E. Oglesby, died Sunday at age 57. He led Sava’s affiliated facilities for more than 14 years. 

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden death of Tony Oglesby,” SavaSeniorCare said in a statement to McKnight’s. “He was highly respected by our employees and was a well-known leader in the long-term care provider community. He was passionate about long-term care and was instrumental in establishing programs for our employees and residents that continue to exist today. Tony and his family remain in our thoughts and prayers. He will be missed by all who knew him.”

Before Sava, Oglesby was the president of Gulf South Medical Supply and National Medical. He joined LifeCare at Home as its president in 2003 and served as CEO for Life Care Centers for America in 2005, according to Life Care Centers of America President Beecher Hunter.

“Tony was the type of person who commanded attention — not just because of his size but also for his engaging personality that included a sense of humor,” Hunter told McKnight’s. “No matter a person’s title or position, Tony could easily connect with them. He had a heart to serve, and that is critical for anyone, but especially those who work in healthcare.” 

“Tony was passionate about the residents,” added Mark Parkinson, president and chief executive officer of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living. “He ran some companies during the most challenging times possible and never lost sight of what really matters. He was an astute businessman. But way more than that, he was a really good person who cared deeply about our residents.” 

Oglesby also served on the board for the Storms of Life Foundation, which helps employees who are facing financial hardship immediately after a natural disaster or an unforeseen personal hardship. He also was a supporter of Carson-Newman University, where he had played on the men’s basketball team before playing overseas.

Following visitation from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 17, at Bridges Funeral Home in Knoxville, TN.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either to the Storms of Life Foundation, One Ravinia Dr., Suite 1500, Atlanta, GA 30346 Attn: Julie Rigo, or Carson-Newman University Men’s Basketball Team, 2130 South Branner Ave., Jefferson City, TN, 37760.