The Northmead couple’s love for one another has blossomed since the day they met, on July 29 1963, and it’s a day they can still recall.
Gloria, who was 17 at the time, worked as a nurse at Kimberley Hospital, in the Northern Cape, during the holidays to earn extra money.
One day Kenny decided he wanted a day off from work, so he pretended to be sick and went to see the doctor.
To his surprise, he was informed that his appendix had to be removed and as a result he had to stay at the hospital overnight.
He then met Gloria, who was assigned to take care of him, and soon became the love of his life.
They were engaged on April 11 1964, and married nine months later at St Mary’s Cathedral.
Both from Kimberley, Kenny received a work transfer to Windhoek, Namibia, before moving to Benoni in 1988, where they have lived ever since.
Kenny was employed at Transnet as a fitter and turner and was later promoted to supervisor, and Gloria was a finance administrator.
They have one daughter, Rochele de Canh, three grandchildren, MJ, Kayla and Samantha, and one great grandchild, Jayden.
In his spare time, Kenny occupies himself with Scalextrics, slot car racing sets, and model trains, while Gloria enjoys sewing.
The couple has grown together and feel that without each other they would not be where they are today.
Samantha said they look up to their grandparents and hope that one day their marriages will be just as beautiful.
“You are truly two amazing people and could not be more perfect for each other,” said Samantha.
“We love you both so much.”
When asked what their recipe for a long and happy marriage is, Kenny said, “Always compromise, work hard and know that giving up is the easy way out.”
Gloria said they never go to bed angry with each other.
The Smiths celebrated their anniversary with a day out on the Reefsteamers Train to the Irene Village Market. This was followed by dinner with close friends.
