75 Years of Love: Detroit Couple Shares the Secret to Their Lifelong Marriage

They’ve seen decades of change, raised a family, built a business, and are still as in love as ever.

Detroit couple Albert and Myrtle Green recently celebrated an incredible 75 years of marriage, a milestone few couples ever reach. The two credit one simple yet powerful habit for their long-lasting bond: communication (Today.com).

Albert first met Myrtle 80 years ago when they were both just 13 years old. “For me, it was love at first sight,” said the now 93-year-old Albert. “I don’t quite remember what she saw in me — but whatever it was, it’s still there,” he told Today.

Their connection only deepened as they grew up together. Six years after their first meeting, the young sweethearts tied the knot. They went on to have four children, build a thriving family business — Green’s Variety Store, which served Detroit residents for more than five decades — and eventually retire in 2015 (The Detroit Free Press).

“We could work together forever,” said 94-year-old Myrtle with a smile. “We never had any trouble spending time together.”

A Celebration to Remember

The Greens’ community made sure their 75th anniversary was one for the history books. Friends, neighbors, and relatives organized a car parade through their neighborhood, honking and cheering as the couple waved from their front porch. Later, more than 100 guests joined a virtual party to celebrate the couple’s milestone (Good Morning America).

“It was something I’ll never forget,” Myrtle said. “We didn’t expect such a big celebration, but it showed how much love surrounds us.”

The Secret: Honest Communication and Mutual Respect

When asked about the secret to their success, both Albert and Myrtle gave the same answer — communication.

“We don’t argue,” Albert said. “We’ve never raised our voices in front of our children, and we always talk things through.”

Myrtle agreed, adding, “You have to call things out and be on the same page. Be honest and talk things out when you can. We’ve always been able to do that.”

Experts say their approach mirrors what research confirms about long-term relationships. According to a study by the Gottman Institute, couples who maintain open, calm, and respectful communication are significantly more likely to remain happy over time. “The strongest marriages are those where both partners feel heard and valued,” relationship therapist Dr. John Gottman told CNN.

Their daughter, Alecia Green, said her parents’ example shaped her understanding of love and patience. “Communication is everything,” she said. “People move so fast nowadays that they forget to talk and listen. Watching my parents has been a tremendous blessing — they’re calm, kind, and still genuinely enjoy being together.” (People Magazine)

Still Growing Strong — and Still in Love

Eight decades after they met, Albert and Myrtle still cherish the small, everyday moments together. Myrtle continues to cook for her husband — something Albert, a self-proclaimed non-cook, deeply appreciates.

“I can’t cook, so everything she makes is great,” he joked. “I’ve been eating her cooking for 75 years, and I’m not complaining.”

Myrtle says her husband’s kindness is what has kept her heart full for so long. “He’s thoughtful, understanding, and shows his love through actions,” she said. “He doesn’t just say he loves me — he shows me every day.”

Albert echoed the sentiment simply: “She’s a wonderful person. I’ve been lucky all my life.”

A Timeless Example of Enduring Love

The Greens’ marriage stands as a beautiful reminder that true partnership is built not on perfection, but on patience, humor, and heart. As their family and friends continue to celebrate their journey, Myrtle summed it up best:

“Love isn’t just about the big moments. It’s about choosing each other, day after day — for 75 years and counting.”

Happy anniversary, Mr. and Mrs. Green — may your story continue to inspire generations to come.