The couple celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on February 26, at their Rynfield home.
June and Peter met in their teens, 65 years ago, in Southampton, England.
They wed in 1955, at St Mark’s Church, in Woolston, England and moved to South Africa in 1963.
Five years later, they purchased a house in Rynfield, in which they still live in today.
June said no marriage goes without hiccoughs.
“It’s about give and take — he gives and I take,” she joked.
She added that trust and the ability to give each other space has been critical in their long marriage.
June loves watching cricket, is passionate about gardening, sewing, theatre, concerts and music, while Peter loves motor sport and refurbishing cars.
June said her and her husband’s differing interests have helped to foster a strong relationship.
They have given each other the freedom to explore and enjoy what they love.
Marjorie Malan, a friend of the couple, who has known them for 25 years, praised them at their anniversary celebration.
“I have lost count of the number of times Peter has come to my rescue, car wise – whether it be because of a flat battery, being stranded in Edenvale because of failed brakes or taking me to have a CV joint replaced,” she said in her address 5to fellow guests.
“He even came to the rescue of my Peter, on a public holiday, when his car just stopped.
“He is a naturally caring person and I doubt if he would ever not be willing to help others.
“June is equally caring and considerate of the needs of others.
“They are generous with their hospitality and all of us here today (February 22) have experienced it, whether it be the big events like anniversaries or milestone birthdays, or impromptu suppers.”
June still works as a drafter for an engineering firm, while Peter refurbishes racing cars at his home.
The pair have three children: Julie Birch, Ian and Elaine Smith and three grandchildren: Mark Miscia, Amy Smith and Daniel Smith, and one great-grandchild: Tayla Smith.
