Haven helped celebrate Violet and Richard Timmons’ 70th wedding anniversary this month. The couple, both Haven patients, grew up in the same neighborhood and were childhood sweethearts.
Haven celebrated two married patients’ 70th wedding anniversary. Richard and Violet Timmons are pictured seated in the photo above, along with Haven Chaplain Steve Severs, volunteer Judy Lindsey, Volunteer Coordinator Vondla Sullivan and the patients’ daughter (far right) Laura Sweat. Volunteer Dinei Morehouse was also present.
Haven team members were proud to be a part of this celebration. The couple was presented with homemade lap throws, a cake with pearls and a topper, a balloon bouquet and an anniversary card signed by volunteers and staff. Haven Chaplain Steve Severs, with the couple’s blessing, read scriptures and had a prayer blessing over their many years together.
In addition, the couple shared their story with those in attendance. Richard shared that he had Violet’s name tattooed on this shoulder at age 14 and that they were married when they were both 17. They were so young that their parents had to sign for them.
Both patients are proud of their Native American heritage and shared some of their culture with the team members that were at the celebration, showing them a collection of keepsakes and life-sized eagle statues in their yard. The team said the experience was “very moving and beautiful.”
Additionally, Richard served in the United States Army. Haven performed a veteran recognition ceremony a few weeks prior to their anniversary celebration.
The couple lived in Michigan but then moved to Florida, where they have been for most of their married years. They have three children and “bunches and bunches” of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their daughter Laura was present for their Haven anniversary celebration and recorded the presentation of gifts for her sister who could not be there. The Timmonses said that their other children have passed away.
Happy anniversary to the Timmonses! It was an honor for Haven to help celebrate their wonderful accomplishment.