Emma Pritchard
The secret to a long and happy union is being yourself around your partner, and knowing when to listen to one another.
And as Grafton couple Harry and Betty Layton (nee Wenzel), celebrate their 76th wedding anniversary on June 7, their youngest daughter Kerrie Layton, along with her siblings Greg and Gail, feel their parents are a true testament to the aforementioned statement.
Born and raised in the Clarence Valley, the couple met at a local dance and married at St Luke’s Church in Grafton before journeying to the coastal community of Iluka for their honeymoon.
Known throughout the region for their selfless spirit and compassion, the Layton’s enjoyed a close working relationship with their local community.
Mr Layton worked at the Grafton Dairy Company in Victoria Street before dividing his time between Grafton and Wooli as a local butcher.
For close to 20 years, he worked part time as a local ambulance officer in the district, and was already ready to assist those in need.
Mrs Layton worked at the Golden Fleece garage in South Grafton and at Kane’s Corner Store in Grafton, which was previously located on the corner of Prince Street and Bacon Street.
She also worked as a cleaner in a local motel and rented holiday units to visiting couples, while her husband was working in Wooli.
The Layton’s have three children, Gail, Greg, and Kerrie, 10 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.
In the past 12 months, the couple, aged 97 and 96, moved into Dougherty Villa in Grafton, and continue to enjoy regular visits from their loved ones.
Ms Layton said her dad still retains his larrikin sense of humour, while her mum has always been a very kind and caring woman who loves spending time with her family.
“They are wonderful parents, and they raised my brother and sister and I to treat people as we would like to be treated ourselves,” she said.
The Layton’s will enjoy a special anniversary celebration today with their loved ones.
“76 years, it’s hard to comprehend, and a wonderful thing to celebrate,” Ms Layton said proudly.
On behalf of her family, Ms Layton wished to extend a sincere thank you to the Clarence Valley community for their kind messages and best wishes as her parents celebrate their 76th wedding anniversary this week.