DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — "What does love mean to you?" 

Without hesitation, 81 year-old Jim Freeman replies "Love is a challenge. The more challenges, the stronger your love is!" 

Lincolnshire Place is home to many residents in Decatur who have lived through decades of love. 

You might call them, the love experts.

Valentines advice, Lincolnshire residents

As Valentine's day inches its way closer, they look back at their own love stories.

87 year-old Donald Boyd shares he has been in love four times! "I've learned to just keep my mouth shut!" 

Unlike 85 year-old Una Eldridge, who shares she has been married for 66 years with her husband. "You learn something every minute..." she says with a smile.

For Freeman, he has learned that love can be an anchor in treacherous waters. He has been a caregiver for his wife, Kathleen, for thirteen years. The high school sweethearts learned she has dementia.

"I still talk about our true love. Kathy doesn't, but I can really see it in her eyes...." said Freeman, as he grips her hand. 

Through life's wild ride of ups and downs, these four residents are a reminder that love is not an adjective; it's a verb. 

Copyright 2025. WAND TV. All rights reserved.