Alabama couple George and Louise Dennis recently shed light on the principles underpinning their 80 years of harmonious marriage. They celebrated their anniversary at home with family and friends from First Baptist Church of Dothan.
Their love story traces back to their childhood when they first crossed paths while George delivered newspapers at 16. Their first meeting blossomed into a relationship, and soon they became inseparable.
Alabama couple’s secret to 80-year marriage
In 1944, while still in high school, the lovebirds made a bold decision to elope to Bonifay, Florida. George revealed that upon returning home, they confronted Louise’s parents with the news of their marriage, sparking initial disapproval and concern from both families.
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Despite the initial resistance, with perseverance and determination, they eventually gained the blessing of Louise’s father. “I said, ‘Well, we went off and got married,” he stated. ‘”Oh, you could have heard her (Louise’s mother) scream clean from Dothan.”
George and Louise Dennis share the secret to their long-lasting marriage
Despite the couple’s deep affection, they encountered numerous obstacles throughout their journey together. These challenges included George’s enlistment to serve in World War II, where he sustained injuries, and the tragic loss of their adopted daughter in a horse riding accident.
While reflecting on the success of their eight-decade-long marriage, the couple attributed their bond to their unwavering faith and belief in each other. George also emphasized the importance of actively listening to his wife to maintain a harmonious and fulfilling relationship. “Tell the husband to say ‘Yes, dear,’” he confessed.
