Rasbert Turner, Star Writer

Israel and Ivy Smith

Spanish Town

Not even the cold climate of Wolverhampton, England, could dampen the warmth that kept the matrimonial bliss of Israel and Ivy Smith burning for over 50 years.

The two celebrated their golden anniversary in Old Harbour, St Catherine, on Saturday, August 9.

The church hall of the St Josephs Methodist Church was transformed into a vision of gold, red and cream to celebrate the beautiful occasion.

Put argument to mi

Ivy described to Life and Times how she met her husband. "I was sewing for his sister when I met him. He started to put argument to mi and would not take no for an answer; I fell in love. And that's how it all began," she said with a smile, while looking into the eyes of a proud Israel.

Israel told his story: "My brother, she had some lovely legs, so very long and smooth, and I could not allow her to get away from me. And while talking to her, I realised that she has other great qualities. And we started right there," he recalled.

The couple migrated to England in 1957, and got married a year later. This union produced a daughter, Mary, who still resides in England with the Smith's five grandchildren. "She could not make it, but I am thankful for friends, and I cherish this moment as the day we walk down the aisle and say our 'I dos'. The love is still very strong and it's the pillar that kept us together," remarked Israel.

His wife said that for any relationship to last, it has to withstand the test of time, and there has to be a lot of compromise. She warned that couples should not "take hear seh, always pray together as, after a while, it is what keep persons together in their times of need."

For those who attended the celebration, it was a grand occasion filled with praises for the exemplary life that the Smiths live.

The Smiths, having spent 43 years in England, returned to Jamaica in 2000, and said 50 more years would be fitting for the long life of love that they have lived.

Israel and Ivy Smith during a function where they celebrated their 50th anniversary. - Rasbert Turner photos