Newport couple celebrates 70th anniversary

Cheers to 70 Years!

Mary, 90, and John, 95, were joined by friends, family and staff at their home in Avondale, sheltered housing in Newport, to enjoy an excellent buffet and a fabulous Platinum Anniversary cake, made by Housekeeper Lynn Walsh.

The couple met purely by chance in 1953 at a dance hall in Ryde. John went to hang up his coat in the cloakroom where Mary was working that evening, and they have both described the moment that they set eyes on each other as love at first sight.

The relationship blossomed culminating in John proposing to Mary, and they were married in Nottingham in March 1954, which they cite as their most romantic moment. Mary and John have made lots of happy memories since, and together they have raised their three sons, Paul, John and Alun.

John had a successful engineering career, retiring in 2002. In April 2015 the couple decided to move to the Isle of Wight, where Mary is from, and took a room at Avondale in June 2023, in order to enjoy their later years worry-free.

They now enjoy life in their comfortable flat, alongside the good food, sociable activities and security that Abbeyfield properties famously provide for their residents.

When asked about the secret to the longevity of their loving relationship, Mary and John said that it was founded upon...

“...happiness, understanding each other, and having both common and separate interests.”

Retirement Living for Couples

Retirement is a new chapter, and for couples, it's a chance to rediscover shared passions and create new memories together. When it comes to retirement living, navigating the various options can feel overwhelming.

At Abbeyfield, we have homes all across the UK that are able to accommodate couples. There are many benefits of downsizing from a house, to a retirement living community as a couple, such as:

• Embracing a community — Become part of a supportive network of like-minded residents, creating new friendships and enjoying an active social life
• Shared experiences and enhanced wellbeing — Enjoy a variety of on-site amenities that cater to your shared interests, promoting an active and fulfilling lifestyle together
• Peace of mind — Knowing that Abbeyfield offers a range of care options provides peace of mind, allowing your community to adapt to your changing needs

We understand that every couple is unique. Our flexible options ensure you both can maintain your independence while receiving the support you need.

Back to Blog

Read more Articles & News