A special love that still endures decades later
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STEUBENVILLE -- Although Valentine's Day has passed, there is nothing better than hearing about a sweet love story. And few are better than that of Donnie Armstrong and Mary Jean Devore.
The local couple personify the power of love and will celebrate 37 years together this spring, marking an enduring and endearing relationship. They began as friends in the 1990s after meeting at the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities' Jeffco Workshop in Steubenville. But eventually, love blossomed.
Armstrong, a resident of Mingo Junction, recalled the day he was introduced to Devore, a Steubenville resident who is known by her friends as M.J. He was encouraged by his friends at the workshop to make her acquaintance.
"They told me to talk to her," he said. "We talked and we got together." Devore added, "We were friends for a while. We got along."
Both previously worked with the janitorial crew at the School of Bright Promise. They are now retired. Armstrong, who is 72, and Devore, 66, currently spend their days at PALS Chrysalis Health Adult Day Service in Mingo Junction. Here, they enjoy art, activities and genuinely being together. But things became even more special when Armstrong popped the question -- ring and all -- on their 36th anniversary.
"On April 11, we got engaged," Devore commented, noting they had discussed the issue for some time.
"Someone gave me a ring and I got on my knee," Armstrong stated. "I said, 'M.J., do you want to get engaged?' She said, 'Yeah.'"
However, the two are not planning any nuptials. Instead, they chose their own special bands -- hers, gold, and his, a silver skull ring. The couple prefer to remain engaged, saying they are happy the way they are. They say their relationship works through communication and mutual interests, such as taking walks, shopping and dining out.
Armstrong has provided his fiancee with gifts, including a Cabbage Patch doll, a radio and a globe engraved with their names. Those who know the couple describe them as sweet and kind people who show what happiness truly is.
"I've known Donnie for just over two years," stated Ed Lantz, Armstrong's service support administrator through the JCBDD. "As I've known Donnie, I've also known Mary Jean for just over two years. They are a pair and are often found together, spending time with each other, talking, putting together puzzles and more."
"I love talking to Donnie," Lantz continued. "Anytime I ask him a question, he will keep Mary Jean in his mind when giving the response. It's easy to see, there is a genuine love there. They've been together for many years and I can't see that ending." He noted Armstrong's unique style, which includes a love of knickknacks that feature dragons and skulls, adding he likes to wear shirts, jackets and other apparel with similar designs, including his ring.
"They are an amazing couple and I wish them many more years together," Lantz concluded.
"I have known Mary Jean and Donnie for nine years, and their relationship is very important to them," remarked Tracey Thomas, Devore's service support administrator. "Mary Jean says she just loves him and is quick to add there has never been anyone else. They talk on the phone every night and have never missed a call in all their years together."
When asked to describe what they like best about each other, Devore said, "He's a nice guy."
And Armstrong? "I love her very much," he replied.