The Record Newspapers - Hometown News For Orange County, Texas

Love is in the air and not just because Valentine’s Day is around the corner, but because of Henry Lee Willey and his bride of nearly 64 years, Lamurel Willey, who are just as in love now as they were when they first got married.

Henry Lee Willey, who is the third generation from the Mauriceville area, spotted his future wife at a Mauriceville cafe where she was working as a waitress. It was her long dark curly hair which caught his eye. Lamurel is from Shelby County which is jokingly referred to as the “back woods.”

It wasn’t long before the couple realized it was a “good fit” and years later they would look back and know it was the reason they had lived such a good life together.

Together they raised six children. Family was important to them. They made it a point to attend all of their children’s baseball and basketball games.

Weekends were spent at their home in Toledo Bend. Together they fished and enjoyed each others company. Even after their children were grown with children of their own, they continued to go to the lake. Over the years, their family has grown to include 15 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

The work week was busy. Henry worked at Bethlehem Steele while Lamurel stayed home with the children. She also quilted. But, Lamurel would also occasionally make Henry’s favorite dessert, a chocolate pie, which was sure to bring a smile.

‘Daddy always loved Momma,” said Carol Annette, the daughter of Henry and Lamurel. “That’s the best gift he gave us.”

So, as Valentine’s Day nears, they already have what many continue to search for...love.

From the early days, Henry and Lamurel Willey, knew they were a good fit and they would be together for the rest of their lives.