Abbeville couple still in love after 63 years of marriage

Friday is Valentine’s Day - a day where loved ones thank each other for being there for one another. For one Abbeville couple, who has been married 62 years, telling each other “I love You” everyday helps keep the marriage strong.
Luce and Velma Frederick are one of a handful of couples who have been married more than 60 years in the parish.
“I tell her I love her each day,” said Luce. “I never forget.”
“I come back with, “I love you also,’” said Velma.
While many couples will downplay Valentine’s Day, even after 62 years of marriage, the Fredericks still celebrate the day. There will not be any flowers or candy given to each other, because they have done that over time. They will, however, go out and eat tonight in honor of Valentine’s Day.
The two love birds still remember when they first met each other back in 1947. Velma was 14 and Luce was 16.
“There was an instant attraction,” said Velma. “We were young when we met.”
They met at a dance hall where they attended with their parents.
“I remember seeing her with her brother,” said Luce. “I looked at her and I wanted to know who she was.”
They dated four years and were married in 1951. Velma was 17 and Luce was only 19 at the time.
Both sets of parents thought they were too young . Their private theme song going into their wedding was “Too Young” by Nat King Cole in 1951.
“We thought we knew what we were doing,” said Luce.
They had three children, two boys and a girl. Today, they have grand children and great grandchildren.
The couple admit they have struggled over the years but have survived because they depend on each other. Luce said one secret to having a solid marriage is communication. “Talk to each other and do not stay angry with each other.”
Velma said God plays a big part in their lives and each night they pray together.
“We have a wonderful life,” said Velma. “We have wonderful children, grand children and great grandchildren. Our children have wonderful spouses.”
Luce looked at his wife and said she is still a beautiful person on the inside and outside.
After 62 years of marriage, Velma adds, “I guess it meant to be.”