‘Share all decisions’ – Sidcup care home residents share secret to a happy marriage

Love was well and truly in the air at a Sidcup care home when two residents celebrated a very special milestone.

94-year-old Joyce Gibson, a resident at Care UK’s Smyth Lodge on Frognal Avenue, and her husband 94-year-old, Malcolm, toasted their 70^th wedding anniversary on 29^th May.

In a true case of ‘love at first sight’, Joyce and Malcolm met when they were 20 and 21 years old at a New Year’s Eve dance, in 1950. Commenting on their first encounter, Malcolm said: “I thought she was the prettiest girl I had ever seen – and she thought I looked smart!” 

The couple went on their first date soon after, on 8^th January, going to see the town’s visiting circus and funfair. After four happy years together, the couple married at Westminster Chapel on 29^th May 1954. 

Offering their advice for a successful marriage, the couple agreed there are three non-negotiables: “Always put your partner first, have no secrets – and share all decision-making!”

The couple, who have three children, six grand-children and 12 great grandchildren celebrated their special day with a visit from their family, live entertainment and a cake homemade by the home’s talented catering team. In the evening they had a family meal at a local restaurant.  

Tracey Cheeseman, Home Manager at Smyth Lodge, said: “Here at Smyth Lodge, we know how important it is to celebrate all of life’s milestones, big and small. This was a big day for Joyce and Malcolm, and we were honoured to raise a glass to their long and happy marriage – we can certainly all learn from their experience.

“The atmosphere in the home was wonderful and prompted many residents to reminisce and share fond memories of their own weddings. It truly was a day to remember – happy anniversary Joyce and Malcolm!”

Smyth Lodge has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential dementia and nursing care, as well as respite care.