The Hogues celebrate 50 years together

George and Libby Hogue George and Libby Hogue celebrated their 50 wedding anniversary with a Rock & Roll party July 26, 2008 in Kilgore. The party was given by their three children: Beth Clanahan, Greg Hogue, and Brad Hogue.

Johnny and Sue Clements provided the perfect setting in the country at their party barn. Johnny's bandstand was perfect for the Brooze Brothers Band who played old and new music and lots of old rock and roll oldies.

All six granddaughters did a long line dance for Mema Estelle Hughes, Great Aunt Betty Wood, Grandmama and PaPa Hogue. Then the nieces and nephews joined them.

George sang some karaoke for everyone. Sue sang her very special rendition of "At Last." Another great highlight was a little skit performed by Beth, Amanda and Chad Lee (grandson), and nephew James Guinn from Seabrook. It was a complete surprise!

Amanda had on Grandmama's wedding dress while she acted out her part. Libby was a senior when she first met George in Seymour High School. But she refused to date him because he was a junior. She went off to college at Denton, and the next year, things changed. She and George got married in 1958 in Denton. Both got jobs in Houston and lived there 2 1/2 years.

James played the part of Libby's dad. He always called George the "Sheepherder." Libby's dad had broken his arm in an oilfield accident and had moved to take a job with Nortex Oil & Gas in Seymour in 1956. So the saying goes, "Oh Pa! If only you hadn't broken your arm!"

Next, Chad and Amanda Lee made a special DVD of old and new family pictures set to rock and roll music. It played over and over during the party and brought much joy and tears of happiness to George and Libby.

Old schoolmates, relatives and friends came from near and far. George retired from Arco Pipe Line and fellow workers came from Gilmer, Elkhart, Luling, Mexia, Henderson and Arp. One hundred eighty were served brisket and turkey and all the trimmings.

Robbie Waller brought a delicious fruit salad in a decorated watermelon rind bowl. Carol and Richie Jackson brought sausage and some tart and cool punch. Janelle Berry from Gilmer made the three-tier wedding cake, a cake shaped like the State of Texas. All were not only beautifully decorated, but also tasted really good! And then Janelle helped Beth, Greg and Brad serve it, too! She is so good to us!

The Hogues are grateful for the many cards received, the gifts of certificates to eat out at Chili's and McKay's, the special gifts of photo albums, glassware and pictures. It was a great reunion party for all.