Family Celebrates NJ’s Longest Married Couple

HOWELL – Imagine a Marine veteran, a chance encounter in Jersey City, and nearly eight decades of unwavering love. What’s the result? An unforgettable anniversary party celebrating 75 years of marriage!

Lou and Gloria Parisi of Loch Arbour recently toasted their diamond-golden anniversary at the Howell home of their grandson Marc and his wife, Sandra Parisi. Married on July 2, 1949, the two lovebirds are thought to be New Jersey’s longest-married couple, recognized by World Marriage Encounter (WME) and its prestigious Longest Married Couple Project (LMCP).

A Chance Meeting

Gloria, turning 94 in August, and Lou, who’s 98, first locked eyes when they literally bumped into each other in their Jersey City neighborhood. The couple’s first date at an ice cream parlor set the stage for a romance that has endured for decades. After dating for a couple of years, they tied the knot and embarked on a journey filled with love, laughter, and plenty of stories to tell.

Lou, a World War II Marine who saw active combat in Okinawa, returned home in 1945 after being injured overseas. A first-generation American, Lou’s parents came from Italy, while Gloria’s family roots trace back to Poland. Together, they raised six children: Michele, Louis Jr., Greg, Patrice, Glenn, and Jeannine. Their family now includes 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Although Lou initially aspired to become a carpenter, his father insisted he pursue a college education. This decision led to Lou’s illustrious career in education, where he taught Latin and English at St. Peter’s Preparatory School in Jersey City. His dedication and impact on his students were recognized with induction into the Legends of Prep in 1999.

“A lot of his students still keep in touch with him,” smiled Gloria. “They will stop in during the summertime to visit him.”

Lou also shared his knowledge at Dickinson Evening School and ultimately retired as a Freehold Regional High School teacher.

Meanwhile, Gloria balanced the demands of a stay-at-home mom and kept the household running with some other talents that kept her busy. She has a green thumb, enjoys painting, and has outstanding culinary skills. While her stuffed cabbage has always been a hit with the family, Gloria has always had a strong knack for creating delicious Italian dishes.

Moving To The Shore

The couple’s love for the Jersey Shore led them to summer rentals in Belmar, where they ultimately purchased a second home. When a family member in Loch Arbour informed them of a nearby property for sale, they eagerly seized the opportunity. In 1969, they sold their Jersey City and Belmar properties, permanently relocating to Loch Arbour just blocks from the beach. The couple have lived there ever since.

Lou and Gloria embraced their new home enthusiastically, quickly integrating into the community. They became fixtures at the local church, where Lou took on the role of lector, delivering readings with a resonant voice that filled the sanctuary. Meanwhile, Gloria added her melodious touch to the church choir, her voice continuing to retain its vibrant tone to this date.

As their children grew older, Gloria, who had previously focused on homemaking, decided to venture into the workforce. She found employment in two local clothing stores, where her dedication and skill soon earned her the role of assistant manager in one of them.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Lou was deeply engaged in community service, notably as Commander of the Asbury Park VFW Harold Daley Post No.1333 for several years. Additionally, he served with distinction as the mayor of the Village of Loch Arbour and contributed extensively to the municipality’s planning board over an extended period.

As it had always been, Lou and Gloria’s home remains the epicenter of family gatherings, filled with music and lots of good food. Both Lou, Jr. and Glenn are retired music teachers, and all of the brothers and sisters know how to play the piano.

Their life together hasn’t been without hardship. Lou and Gloria have faced their share of sorrow, leaning on each other for strength. Their greatest challenge was undoubtedly the loss of their eldest daughter, Michele, to cancer at the young age of 42.

A Love Story That Endures

In reflecting on their enduring love story, Gloria shared insights into their successful marriage, emphasizing mutual respect as the cornerstone.

“Respect is primary,” she said. “Always say yes, and know when to keep your mouth shut.”

Lou smiled at Gloria as he admitted he does say yes to his wife – he likes to make her happy.

“Have enough sense and enough love for one another to walk away – or enough respect for one another to walk away,” added Gloria when asked how the couple handles disagreements.

She emphasized the importance of communication, noting, “But you just can’t walk around after that and not talk to each other. That’s not us.”

A playful spirit marks their relationship; they often flirt and share laughter. Their children and grandchildren refer to them as “Bana and Pop.” Gloria affectionately calls Lou “sweetie,” while he lovingly refers to her as “honey.”

Lou’s admiration for Gloria remains undiminished after nearly eight decades together. He still has a twinkle in his eye when he looks at her, and she still dotes on him. Gloria even took a moment to cut her husband’s sandwich in half before the start of a lunchtime interview.

Gloria cherishes Lou’s gentle nature, recalling, “I can’t remember a time he’s raised his voice to me.” And not a day goes by that Lou doesn’t reflect on his wife’s beauty.

Their grandson Marc admits he couldn’t have asked for better role models. He was happy to host their anniversary party.

“I’ve been blessed that I’ve been able to have the relationship that I have with my grandparents, which I think is more meaningful than your traditional relationship that grandparents and grandchildren have,” said Marc. “We’re very close. We can talk about everything.”