United Church of God

Local Church Updates: Portsmouth Couples Celebrate 123 Years

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Local Church Updates

Portsmouth Couples Celebrate 123 Years

On the Sabbath of Sept. 2, the congregation honored them for their years of marriage together.

Red and Naomi met as a result of Red's brother setting up a date for them. They were married in Annapolis, Maryland, on Nov. 28, 1943. They had been married for one month when Red was sent to Europe during World War II.

Upon his return from the war, Red began playing music, going to college to learn accounting and working at the steel mill in Portsmouth. Red continued to work at the mill for 30 years until retirement, and Naomi became a housewife.

Red and Naomi had two sons and, with Red working at the steel mill during the day and playing music seven nights a week, life was difficult at home.

In 1973, Red and Naomi learned of the Church and things began to change for the better. God's truth helped them learn to work together and work things out in their marriage so that it has lasted 63 years.

Besides their two sons, Red and Naomi have five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Red was eventually ordained as a deacon and has served in songleading, in giving sermonettes and in helping coordinate the local church area. Through the years, Red and Naomi have faithfully served the congregation.

Ralph and Mildred Smith were married in Greenup, Kentucky, on Aug. 9, 1946. Their relationship blossomed as a result of an introduction by friends. This year they reached their 60th anniversary.

They came into the Church in November 1969 and have been faithful members since. Ralph and Mildred now serve as deacon and deaconess.

Ralph and Mildred have two children, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Ralph has served the congregation in giving sermonettes and is known for his love of God's truth and enthusiasm for teaching it. Mildred has faithfully helped year after year in food and social setup and in many other ways.

Red and Naomi and Ralph and Mildred are loved by the congregation and many more years of marriage and service are anticipated.