A Lifetime of Love: Clinton Couple Celebrates 70 Years of Marriage on December 18
December 17, 2025
Clinton residents Howard James Spry, Jr. and his wife, Nannie Mae “Nancy” Spry, née Clegg, will celebrate an extraordinary milestone this Thursday, December 18: their 70th wedding anniversary. Their story—rooted in faith, friendship, and an unshakeable devotion to one another—offers a heartfelt reminder of what commitment looks like over the course of a lifetime.
The Sprys first met as teenagers riding their bicycles around their neighborhood in Hickory, North Carolina. That simple, everyday moment led to a love story that has now spanned seven decades. The couple married on December 18, 1955, in the chapel at First Methodist Church in Hickory—a day they remember vividly. “We loaded the car and were chased out of town by our friends,” they recalled with a smile.
In the early years of their marriage, adventure was a constant companion. The newlyweds traveled from Hickory to New Orleans and then to Laredo Air Force Base in Texas, where Howard was stationed for pilot training. Their journey eventually took them to Denver, Colorado, before life brought them back to the Carolinas. They have lived in the Upstate on and off for more than 40 years and moved to Clinton a little over two and a half years ago.
Throughout their marriage, the Sprys built a life anchored by faith and family. They raised three children—Mary Scott, Susan, and Jim (Clinton resident and Main Street Clinton Director)—each of whom they proudly describe as successful and deeply loved. Traditions played an important role in keeping them connected through the years, especially their church involvement and the lighting of their anniversary candle, a cherished wedding gift still used annually.
Like any couple, they faced challenges, including relocations to new towns where they needed to rebuild community. But they approached each transition with intention and optimism. “We always found a church home,” they shared.
When asked about the secret to a long, strong marriage, their answer was simple and sincere: a deep love for each other and a foundation of supportive friendships through church. Their unity also shaped their parenting. “We were always on the same page as we raised our children,” they said. “We felt we should meet each child’s needs—braces, piano, camps.”
Today, what they cherish most is the ability to care for one another, something they consider a true gift at this stage of life. They also treasure the joy of seeing their grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow.
To celebrate their 70th anniversary, the Sprys plan to light their anniversary candle, just as they have done every year, and enjoy a special meal together. The milestone, they say, is a reminder of the extraordinary blessing of the time they’ve been given and the life they’ve shared. Their advice for young couples just starting out remains as timeless as their love story: Support each other.
The Laurens County Buzz extends heartfelt congratulations to Howard and Nancy Spry on 70 years of marriage and thanks them for sharing their story, and the life lessons woven through it, with our readers. Their example of love, faith, and commitment enriches our community and inspires all who hear it.
