They were married March 27, 1958 at Linnville Baptist Church by the Rev. Raymond Dillon.

They are the parents of Debbie Sowards and Teresa and Greg Bland. They also have three grandsons, Caleb and Cody Bland and Jared Sowards, all of Willow Wood.

An anniversary celebration will be given in their honor at 6 p.m. April 5 at the Union Baptist Church fellowship hall. Well-wishers are invited to share this special day. It is asked that gifts are omitted but special memories and photographs are welcome.