Celebrating 70 Years of Love
AT CEDARHURST SENIOR LIVING, TWO REMARKABLE COUPLES RECENTLY CELEBRATED A MILESTONE THAT ONLY ONE IN 1,000 MARRIED COUPLES EVER ACHIEVE - THEIR 70TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES. KNOWN AS THE “PLATINUM ANNIVERSARY,” THIS EXTRAORDINARY EVENT HIGHLIGHTS THE LOVE, DEVOTION, AND SHARED ADVENTURES THAT HAVE KEPT THESE COUPLES TOGETHER FOR SEVEN DECADES.
A t Cedarhurst of Arnold, Leon and Dora May Pearce marked their 70th year of marriage, reflecting on a journey filled with joy, travel, and dancing. The pair first met on a blind date at a Long Island pub called “Boloney John’s” when Dora May was 19 and Leon was 23. After a whirlwind courtship, Leon proposed just two months later, and the couple wed in October 1954. Looking back, they attribute their lasting happiness to staying active together and cherishing every moment. One of their fondest memories is the birth of their children, Lee and Diana, and they’ve treasured their many travels around the world, from Europe to Japan. When asked for advice for younger couples, Dora May smiled and said, “Don’t go to bed angry. Say ‘I love you,’ and always kiss goodnight.” Leon’s advice was simple yet powerful: “Support each other in whatever you do.” Meanwhile, at Cedarhurst of West Plains, Jerry and Shirley Jacques celebrated their own 70th anniversary, surrounded by over 50 close friends. Shirley recalled how their love blossomed after Jerry returned from the Air Force, noticing that his childhood friend’s little sister had “all grown up.” The couple’s Christian faith has been the cornerstone of their marriage, guiding them through life’s challenges. One of their biggest adventures was overcoming Jerry’s fear of flying to enjoy a memorable trip to Hawaii - a journey made possible by Jerry’s work as a bank president. When reflecting on their fondest memories, the Jacques’ agreed that raising their children together was the highlight of their life. Shirley’s advice for younger couples? “Go to church together and be kind to others.” These love stories illustrate the beauty of lasting commitment, proving that with love and devotion, a lifetime together can be filled with joy, adventure, and deep connection.
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Jerry and Shirley Jacques, West Plains
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WINTER FLOURISH 2025 | CEDARHURST SENIOR LIVING
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