The Ennis Family: Welcoming the New Year with Joy, Community, and a House Full of Heart
As Ardsley steps into a fresh new year, there’s no better way to celebrate than by spotlighting a family who embodies warmth, generosity, and true neighborhood spirit. For the past three years, the Ennis household—Patrick, Kayleigh, their sons Lucas and Oliver, and a joyful crew of dogs—has brought energy, compassion, and community-minded living to our corner of Savannah.
Originally from England, Kayleigh brings her love of reading, Pilates, travel, and all things cozy to the family’s bustling home life. Patrick, originally from New Jersey, is a former Army medical helicopter pilot who served for 10 years before transitioning into a data analyst consultant role with Deloitte. Together, the pair balances demanding careers with a strong commitment to family, community involvement, and creating a home where neighbors always feel welcome.
Kayleigh works as an RN in Memorial Hospital’s NICU and is currently studying to become a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner through Vanderbilt—work that is both demanding and deeply meaningful to her- both she and Patrick prioritize giving back however they can. They volunteer with Renegade Paws Rescue, are members of Wesley Monumental Church, support the Savannah Historical Foundation, and Kayleigh participates on the Unit Practice Committee at Memorial.
Their two boys, Lucas (7) and Oliver (4), bring even more lively charm to the home. Lucas is deeply involved in local sports—he joined the Ghost Pirates junior hockey team this year, plays soccer, participates in a run club, and is a proud Cub Scout with the Wolves. Oliver is equally energetic and passionate about soccer and hopes to learn to skate soon, inspired by his big brother.
But the Ennis household is more than just a family of four. Bailey, their rescued golden retriever–chow mix, has been part of the family for eight years. Joining her is Winnie, a two-year-old dachshund rescued earlier this year from a severe breeding case. And because their hearts have seemingly endless room, the family serves as active fosters for Renegade. In just the past year, they’ve helped eleven dogs find their forever homes—including their current foster puppies, Breeze and Shelly.
Weekends in their home are full and joyful: walks with the dogs, cheering at the boys’ games, tuning in for UGA or hockey, and gathering with Kayleigh’s book club. The Ennises treasure playful traditions like Taco Tuesdays and decked-out holiday celebrations, and they’re known for their open-door policy, always happy to welcome friends, neighbors, and anyone in need of a warm place to land.
As we turn the calendar to a new year, families like the Ennises remind us what truly makes a neighborhood special—kindness, connection, and a willingness to show up for others. Their home may be bustling with activity, but it’s full of heart most of all.