As Valentine’s Day approaches, Herb and Mary Hait of East Meredith share a love story that’s as enduring as it is inspiring. On January 20, 2025, they celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary — a milestone few couples reach, and one that offers a treasure trove of wisdom for younger generations.
A High School Love Story
Herb and Mary’s journey began at South Kortright Central School, where they met as teenagers. Herb, a basketball center and All-Star recipient during his senior year, became aware of Mary during those games. Mary, a cheerleader with a passion for photography, quickly became the focus of Herb’s affections.
“She was one of the prominent cheerleaders,” Herb recalls. “She caught my eye, and I guess I caught hers, too.”
They married on Jan. 20, 1952, just six months after Mary graduated high school. Their wedding at Hobart Methodist Church marked the beginning of a life filled with shared dreams, hard work, and unwavering commitment.
Building a Life Together
From the start, Herb and Mary embraced teamwork as the foundation of their relationship. Herb took over his family’s dairy farm, which had been in operation since 1790. In 1959, he revolutionized the farm by building the first milking parlor in Delaware County, switching the herd from Guernseys to Holsteins.
Mary contributed just as much, running a catering business and baking wedding cakes. At one point, the couple even purchased and operated the Hidden Inn in South Kortright. Herb was the host and Mary did the food prep, where the “Chuck Wagon Buffet” was something everyone looked forward to. She was also responsible for the overall management of the business. The two are remembered for their teamwork at the restaurant 40 years later.
“We always worked together,” he said.
Even today, their partnership shines. Herb fixes Mary a cup of tea each morning and makes sure she take her medicine.
Overcoming Life’s
Challenges
Like any couple, the Haits have faced their share of challenges. One of their greatest heartbreaks was the loss of their firstborn son, who died in a farm accident at the age of 12. Yet, through tragedy, they leaned on one another.
“When you have challenges, you need to work together to work them out,” Herb said. “That’s the only way — to understand each other and face the good times and the bad together.”
Mary echoed his sentiment: “We both need each other to get through life’s ups and downs. It’s about sharing everything.”
Cherished Memories
For Herb and Mary, the births of their children rank among their most treasured memories. Their first two children were born at home, in the house Mary grew up in.
Their four daughters, all of whom have carried forward their parents’ values of love and teamwork, speak highly of their upbringing.
“They modeled what a strong relationship looks like,” said their oldest daughter, Patsy Moody.
“They always worked together, whether it was on the farm, in the restaurant, or in life,” she said.
Advice for the Ages
As Herb and Mary reflect on their 70-plus years together, their advice for younger couples is simple yet profound.
“Always work as a team,” Herb said.
No matter the problems or challenges couples face, “Try to work it out together instead of just one taking charge of everything.”
A Legacy of Love
While Herb and Mary never celebrated Valentine’s Day much — they’ve more than made up for it with a lifetime of devotion.
Their story is a testament to the power of love, partnership, and resilience.
One of Moody’s favorite quotes, which hangs on the wall in her parents’ their home, perfectly captures the essence of Herb and Mary Hait’s love and life together: “It’s better to look back on life and say, ‘I can’t believe I did that,’ than to look back and say, ‘I wish I did that.’”
Love isn’t just about grand gestures — it’s about the every day acts of care, the shared dreams, and the willingness to face life’s challenges together.
