East Texas couple celebrates 72nd Valentine’s Day together

Published 5:35 am Friday, February 14, 2025

For more than 70 years, Norm and Shirley Long have been each other’s forever Valentine. Their love story, which began with movie dates and roller-skating adventures, has endured military service, family life and now, the challenges of aging — yet their devotion remains unshaken.

This year marks their 72nd Valentine’s Day together. Though they live in different parts of The Hamptons of Tyler, Norm in assisted living and Shirley in The Cottage, a memory care unit — their bond is as strong as ever.

Norm visits Shirley often, proving that love isn’t measured by distance but by the commitment to always show up.

Their story began in 1952 when Norm, a young airman, spotted Shirley at a movie theater. She was a high school senior; he thought she was “pretty cute.” Their dates were simple — movies, roller skating, long walks when transportation wasn’t available — but it didn’t take long for them to realize they were meant to be. Six months later, they married in a small Catholic church ceremony, surrounded by family and friends.

Now, at The Hamptons, their love continues in a setting that meets their individual needs while allowing them to remain close. Staff and visitors often witness their unwavering devotion, a reminder that true love doesn’t fade — it simply adapts.

So, after 72 years, what’s their secret? Shirley says it’s Norm’s faithfulness, common sense and thoughtful gestures, whether a bouquet of flowers or a Dairy Queen Blizzard. Norm, on the other hand, swears by Shirley’s dedication to their family and her cooking, especially her pecan pie, chicken and dumplings and Christmas fruit cookies.

Their story is a testament to a lifetime of love, built on simple joys, unwavering commitment and an appreciation for the little things, like a sweet treat or a daily visit just down the hall.