Maryellen and Dr Jim LeDuc are a cause de celebre on our island, for all they do for our community every day. I had the honor and privilege to share in their celebration of a wonderful journey through life together at Holy Rosary Church recently. We are blessed that they have chosen to make Galveston their home for so many reasons, not the least of which is Dr Jim’s continued contribution to the CDC. Maryellen, as a nurse of many years in her own right, contributes much effort to our Ronald McDonald House that provides so much assistance for families dealing with medical crisis. However, this day was all about their love and devotion to each other. Children and grandchildren traveled from all over the US to share in the joy of a celebration, a renewal of vows, and a blessing to all who attended. It was as if we were allowed to go back in time and glimpse what their first wedding was like. The first ceremony, 50 years ago, was bathed in sunny yellow, so like Maryellen’s personality. Today all the children and grandchildren sported yellow, from neckties to bouquets. Of course, it was an amazing coordination of movement and music. So like Maryellen.

Our beloved Deacon Sam, with the help of his Miriam, led the service with as much humor as solemnity. LOVED the story about Jim’s father-in-law upon meeting Jim for the first time, completely unimpressed with his “young man” choice of a refurbished porsche. What kind of a car for a man planning to create a family with his daughter? One of the granddaughters read a famous passage about what love truly is. Maryellen and Jim restated their vows, exchanged rings, and kissed to make it official. What a blessing to be a part of this beautiful love story. Let’s do this again in 2030!!