Considering he was an engineer in the Merchant Navy, it should come as no surprise that Billy McFadyen has helped build a strong and long-lasting marriage of 60 years.
Although, it probably helps that his beloved wife Liz is a former school dinner lady who has shared her recipe for a happy marriage with her man for six decades.
The pair enjoyed an “immense occasion” at Airdrie golf club earlier this month to celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary.
They were joined by family and friends to enjoy music, a tasty buffet and good company while guests raised a glass to the happy couple.
Billy told the Advertiser: “It was amazing and I’ve had people sending me texts claiming it’s the best anniversary party they’ve ever been to!
“We had a wee two-man band called Heatwave who played anything we wanted and they were tremendous.
“About 70 people were there in total and it was great to catch up with friends we hadn’t seen in a long time.”
Billy and Liz, both 79 and originally from Townhead and Gartlea respectively, eventually settled in Cumbernauld but still class themselves as Monklands people. They met at a party in Airdrie as young teenagers, a night Billy remembers fondly.
He recalled: “It was a very sober party – there had been no drinking.
“I met Liz and walked her home and arranged to meet her again.
“I didn’t think at that point it would transpire into a 60-year marriage! I remember it well, though, it was a good old-fashioned party.”
Remembering their wedding day at Wellwynd Church, Liz added: “It was a very quiet day as my mum was heavily pregnant so couldn’t make it and my dad wasn’t there either.
“It was a lovely service, though, and we went to the Pavilion in Glasgow afterwards to see a show called Bless the Bride – how appropriate!
“We’ve got on with our lives well and here we are 60 years later.”
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Billy worked as an engineer before going into plant hire while Liz worked in the former Boots factory as well as a dinner lady.
They have two sons, William and Alisdair, and a daughter, Sheila.
Reflecting on their long and happy marriage, Billy said: “Liz is very relaxed and easy to get on with.
“I think the secret to a happy marriage is compromise and don’t let arguments go on.
“Settle your problems quickly and try to enjoy life.”
Liz added: “When I was young I had never thought about getting married, but it’s been a wonderful life with Billy.”
