King couple celebrate 65 years

Mr. King and the former Ellen Safley were wed March 27, 1942 in Knoxville.

A dinner celebration was given by their children, Philip ?Phil? King, III of Knoxville; Sue Duke of Plano, Texas; Kaye Gentry of Knoxville, Jane King of Knoxville and John Drew King. They are also the parents of the late Jo Wooldridge. They are proud grandparents to 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

A single easel displaying the couple?s wedding portrait was the chosen decor. The couple wore matching rose boutonniere and corsage with pearls and babies breath. Son Phil King was the keynote speaker for the event.

A heart-shaped, white-on-white cake was made by daughter, Sue Duke and transported from Texas. Attending the gala were relatives from both families, children, daughters- and sons-in-law, including Lill King, Sue King of Knoxville, Nile Duke, Jr. of Plano, Texas, and David Gentry of Knoxville. Nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and cherished friends were also in attendance to honor Mr. and Mrs. King.

Mr. King served in the Navy on a baby flat-top aircraft carrier, specializing in electronics. He is retired from AEDC, Tullahoma after a career as a county extension agent in Hickman County. He also enjoys farming.

She is retired from City Bank and Trust Co., where she was manager of the Three Star Mall Branch. The couple enjoy the farm and wildlife, flower and vegetable gardening, e-mailing friends and family and watching the Tennessee Vols games on television.