Haleyville couple’s 72-year marriage honored by the state

HALEYVILLE    - Three weeks after Dude and Jewell McCreless, of Haleyville, first laid eyes on one another, they were married, and that marriage - now going 72 years strong - has earned them a distinct state honor.
The McCreless were recognized at the 2024 Alabama Senior Citizens Hall of Fame ceremony August 12 at Prattville.
Actually, this special hall of fame includes  couples married 65 or more years, and the McCrelesses will be receiving a certificate from the Alabama Department of Senior Services for this achievement, an achievement that is built upon love, honor, respect and commitment.
Although the McCrelesses were not one of the 10 permanent inductees into the hall of fame, they were among the 26 seniors given awards for outstanding services in other categories, which included a marriage lasting 65 or more years, according to a press release issued by the Alabama Department of Senior Services.
“This is the one major event in Alabama each year, where individuals are formally honored and recognized,” stated Jean Brown, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Senior Services.
“We are proud to celebrate the achievements of the Alabamians selected for the Senior Citizens Hall of Fame awards,” Brown added.