Mary and Bobby Crider’s story is the kind of Isle of Hope tale that feels almost destined — the sort of childhood-parallel narrative that only makes sense in a place where neighbors grow into lifelong friends. Long before they married in 2021, the two were unknowingly crossing paths as Savannah kids: attending Isle of Hope Methodist preschool at the same time, playing in the same t-ball league, and even appearing together in a childhood snapshot from “shaving cream day” at Camp Sunshine. They wouldn’t officially meet until high school — Bobby at Benedictine Military School, Mary at Savannah Christian — but their early overlap now feels like a sweet prelude to the life they’ve built.

College took them in separate directions, Bobby to the University of Georgia and Mary to Georgia College, but both eventually landed in Augusta for dental school and nursing school. Returning to Savannah was always the plan. With family nearby and deep roots in the area, coming home felt natural. Today, Mary serves as a nurse in the pediatric oncology clinic at the Dwaine and Cynthia Willett Children’s Hospital of Savannah, while Bobby practices dentistry at Habersham Dental — a meaningful full-circle moment, as he once assisted there during college under the mentorship of founder and longtime Isle of Hope resident Dr. Larry Schmitz.

The couple made Isle of Hope their home in August 2023, thanks to a timely call from a friend and real estate agent who knew the perfect off-market listing when she saw it. They put in an offer sight unseen and have felt grateful ever since. Their dream was simple: raise a family in the same kind of neighborhood that shaped their own childhoods.

That dream took on new life this past May with the arrival of their son, George. With many friends also welcoming babies this year, the Criders love picturing him riding bikes, heading to the neighborhood pool, and spending long summer days exploring the community — a real-life echo of The Sandlot, as Mary puts it. Their favorite routine already includes strolling along Bluff Drive and catching up with friends along the way.

Baker, their 7-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, remains the family’s original “baby” and an enthusiastic participant in Bluff walks and backyard adventures.

The Criders enjoy hosting — this Thanksgiving marked their first holiday gathering with extended family — and they celebrated Christmas Eve at the small Catholic chapel by the Isle of Hope park. When they’re out and about, favorite local spots include Tequila Town, Your Pie, Jalapenos, Sandfly BBQ, and The Wyld.

A monthly supper club keeps their social calendar lively, with neighbors taking turns hosting dinners where everyone can simply walk or golf cart over. And each fall, the Isle of Hope Art and Music Festival ranks among their most cherished community traditions.

For Mary and Bobby, living here isn’t just about a house — it’s about rediscovering the rhythm of the neighborhood that shaped them, and watching their son grow into it, too.