Carl and Nell Sidwell recently celebrated their 60th anniversary with a reception held at La Marie’s, hosted by their son Mike Sidwell and his wife Elaine.

The couple was married on Jan. 24, 1953 in Detroit, Mich.

Mrs. Sidwell is the former Nell Compton of Center, Ala. Carl is a native of Nashville, Tenn. They met in Detroit and moved to Rome in 1959.

Nell graduated from Pepperell High School and worked for a number of years at Celanese before becoming a homemaker. Carl received his GED from West Rome High School. Prior to that, he served in WWII. He owned and operated Vend Services of Rome which opened in 1967.

They have five children: Steve Sidwell, Mike Sidwell, Diane Sidwell, Greg Sidwell and Mark Sidwell.

Carl and Nell say the secret to a successful marriage is in understanding each other’s needs, a willingness to forgive and a strong love for each other and for family.