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August 29, 2007 - A.J. & Alwayne Wimpey, Eugene & Ellen Collins, and Farris & Ruby Collins were recently recognized for many years of dedication, love, and service to each other, to their families, and to God. They have all been happily married for over 50 years.

Ellen Collins and Eugene Collins were married 58 years ago on New Year's Day, January 1, 1949 on Town Creek Road by Preacher Harvey Stephens.

Alwayne and A.J. Wimpey were married 55 years ago on July 15, 1952 by Reverend Henry Brown at his home in Young Harris.

Ruby and Farris Collins were married 52 years ago on June 25, 1955 in Gainesville , Georgia by W.C. Thornton.

Following the Sunday morning Church Service, special prayers and blessings were offered by Rev. Dwayne Patterson, Pastor of Old Liberty Baptist Church in honor of the three couples. Many hugs and kisses followed.

The Collins Wimpey Reunion is held every year at Old Liberty Baptist Church in Union County and gets bigger and better as time goes by. Over 200 people crowded into the spacious fellowship hall this year.

Southern hospitality is at its best at the Collins Wimpey Reunion with tables of casseroles, fresh vegetables, fried chicken, baked hams, BBQ, and covered dishes of every shape and size. An array of desserts including everything from apple pie to pound cake was a feast for the eyes and taste buds. The highlights of the dessert table were three “photograph” cakes decorated with images of the honorary couples. The cakes were almost too special to eat, but who could resist a bite of such fancy fare?

The day was surely a lesson to the younger crowd. What a blessing to have Eugene, Ellen, A.J., Alwayne, Farris, and Ruby as role models in a world that is so full of discord and confusion. Congratulations and many thanks to these three married couples for all they do for their family, neighbors, friends, and community.