July 28, 2014 (Hildebran, NC) ─ Schoolmates and friends throughout school, Frank and Mildred Ballew bonded over letters from home. Frank served in the U.S. Army Ordinance Corps in World War II and Mildred would send him regular correspondence. Once he returned, the couple quickly decided on a wedding date. The couple will celebrate their 68th wedding anniversary on August 2nd.

Frank was in engineering, television and radio. He brought the first radio station to Morganton, North Carolina, while Mildred’s career was in business and finance. She was the Pilot Club president and the first to bring the Lifeline Support Program to North Carolina.

Traveling all over the United States by car, the Ballews were both active in the Baptist Church and civic clubs. Mildred enjoyed needlework and gardening while Frank loved golf. The couple has one son who lives in Atlanta, Georgia. Upon advice from their family doctor, the couple moved to DePaul’s Cambridge House, a senior living community in Hildebran, about one year ago. Mildred enjoys playing Bingo at Cambridge House, while both she and Frank participate in religious services, socials and parties.

Their secret to 68 years of marriage – “don’t argue,” said Mildred. “We just agree that we disagree if needed.”

Frank said marriage is a 50/50 deal.

“No one is the boss,” he said. “We work it out between us.”

Cambridge House Activities Director Cheri Hahn said it’s clear that the Ballews love each other unconditionally.

“This couple is a shining example of what being in love and growing old together should be all about,” she added.

For more information about Cambridge House, please contact Regional Director Melissa Silverman-Connolly, at (828) 325-4980.