Mr. & Mrs. Woods

This was the most meaningful session I’ve ever had the privilege to shoot, a 68th wedding anniversary. Mr. & Mrs. Woods, your length of marriage isn’t only rare, your deep love and affection for one another is too. What I would give to be able to live nearly 68 years married with my Kyle. Your lives are inspiring and challenging, your devotion brings me to tears.

Before I share their story, I want you to know that Mr. Woods sang in his brides ear the whole time. We aren’t quite sure what (as he admitted he was making up songs), but it sounded something like Frank Sinatra. Mrs. Woods couldn’t stop giggling and I thought she was just simply giddy, only to find out at the end of the session he was pinching and tickling her.

May we all live in such a way that our marriage reflects endurance and commitment. And would the relationship that was built on love make the prettiest of portraits.

Their story…

“They married Christmas Day at the baptist church in Oakland City, and walked across the street for a ‘donuts and coffee’ reception at her mother’s home. They couldn’t marry at any other time because he was about to start a job and hadn’t yet earned vacation time.  The preacher gave the marriage 5 years, max. Soon after, he received notice to report to the army. They had their first daughter on base, and he spent nearly her first year of life stationed in Germany during the Korean Conflict. When he returned they quickly had their second daughter and he decided to pursue engineering through the GI bill. He went to school at night and worked all day, but always made time for his girls. Mrs. Woods worked for a law office and Mr. Woods an engineer at Potter and Brumfield.

After retiring early, they enjoyed their grandkids, square dancing, golf, and camping. They spent most of the winters in Florida or Texas, but came home indefinitely when their youngest daughter was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. They are faithful to their family and dedicated to all great grandchildren (9 to be exact!) events big or small.”

This 68th Wedding Anniversary Photo shoot inspired by the listening ear project. Photographed by jordanleffel.com