Couple repeats vows at Eldorado nursing home

Jerry Abby isn't a big talker. But when he does have something to say, it's important. Last Friday was his wedding day, and he definitely had something to say.

Small tears gathered in his eyes as he looked at his new bride and slowly said three short words, "I am happy."

Abby, 79, declared his love for 74-year-old Neva Gibson in the chapel at Eldorado Rehab & Healthcare. The Rev. Biff Moore, minister of First Christian Church in Harrisburg, performed the ceremony.

"I didn't think anyone was ornery enough to marry this guy again," Moore said.

Bob Anderson of Galatia, who worked with Abby at the nearby cap factory, served as best man.

"I was very honored. I've known this man since 1977. We hauled a lot of hats together, millions of them," Anderson said.

Before moving into the nursing home, Abby had lived in Harrisburg.

Gibson, originally from Hardin County, lived in Eldorado before making her final move. She had worked at a Harrisburg nursing home, as well as the cap factory.

"I've known him for a long time," she said, holding her new husband's hand. "We met up again in here."

Abby had been living without a roommate, so his bride made plans to give up her place and move in with him.

"They delivered a big bed in there this morning," she said.

Nursing home administrator Lori Pritchard described the two as a beautiful couple with a "once-in-a-lifetime love."