ENDURING love between a Mount Gambier couple was celebrated last week as Cec and Pat Jones marked their 60th wedding anniversary.
The couple first met aged 21 and 18 respectively and have been inseparable ever since.
While Valentine’s Day will be celebrated across the Limestone Coast today, the Jones steer clear of festivities, instead making an effort to enjoy each other’s company every day of the year.
The couple recall meeting at a social event for the farming community and eventually married around four years later.
After getting married, the pair lived and worked on their farm where they raised four children.
Now into their 80s, the couple has faced a number of challenges during their 60-plus years together, including the death of their son.
In recent times, Mr Jones has faced health challenges which has led him to move into a nursing home.
Despite the distance, the couple say their love remains as strong as ever.
“Pat visits me every single day,” Mr Jones said.
“She never misses one – she must love me a lot.”
Ms Jones said she could not imagine not seeing her husband every day so the visits were an easy task.
“It has been a tough adjustment now Cec is in a nursing home, but they have been really wonderful,” she said.
“We lived and worked on our farm until Cec got sick so now we are townies.”
Mr Jones said the milestone was extra special for him after doctors told him three months ago he would never walk again.
“They said I could not walk, but here I am out celebrating my 60th anniversary,” he said.
“I have to use a walking frame, but I am still proud and grateful to be up and about.
“It’s a great feeling to be out of the home and catching up with all of our friends for our anniversary.”
