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on Monday, September 26, 2022
98-year-old James Bell and 94-year-old Lexie Bell recently celebrated their 75th Wedding anniversary surrounded by friends and family at Arcare Seven Hills Aged Care. The team organised a special flute performance by James’s favourite performer who often puts on shows at the residence.
The residents gathered for a high tea, whilst they enjoyed the music and celebrations. There were delicious treats and tea served alongside an amazing cake. James and Lexie’s two daughters were in attendance to celebrate with the couple.
The Arcare team also decorated the facility with photos and memorabilia for all the residents to appreciate. One of the volunteers had also sat down with the couples in the facility before the celebration and wrote out all their love stories which were pinned to the wall for all the read and enjoy, including their advice for long and happy marriages. Two of the residents also donated their wedding dresses to be put on display for the day.
“Congratulations to James and Lexie for 75 years of marriage, I am proud that here at Arcare, the team and families are able to witness and share in this special day with you and celebrate it by travelling down memory lane together.” Lifestyle Assistant Joanie said.
James and Lexie Bell courted for nearly two years before they were married, Lexie had just started working at TNG Insurance at the age of 16. James was in the Navy and had been overseas for three years on a ship called the Ipswich, and James had walked into the office and asked the girls if they wanted to attend his 21st birthday party. Lexie’s mother had said “no way are you going!”
Lexie and James then wrote back and forth for over 12 months, until he came home on New Year’s Eve. On New Year’s Day he got on a train from Dutton Park to Raby Bay, Cleveland. This is when James met Lexie’s mother and she decided that she liked him and they got engaged when Lexie was 18. One of the provisions for James to go out with Lexie originally was that he had to learn how to dance. Their wedding was held in St Paul’s Church in Cleveland, and they were married by Lexie’s mothers’ pastor. Their best advice for a long and happy marriage is “to just get on well and we don’t argue” Lexie said.
James and Lexie had three children throughout their marriage, however, they did unfortunately lose their son. They now have 7 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren who they all love very dearly.
“They complement each other in every possible way and thus are such a special couple. We hope they enjoyed the day to the fullest!” Lifestyle Assistant Joanie said.
They have resided at Arcare Seven Hills for 18 months now and James mentioned that “the team have been marvellous; they don’t leave any stone unturned and did a fantastic job with helping us adjust to moving in here.”
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