I first met Debra Harrington outside the mailroom on a sunny afternoon. She had one of those radiant smiles that immediately draws you in—warm, open, and full of joy. Within minutes, we were chatting like old friends, and I walked away thinking, This woman is someone special. Little did I know then just how rich her and her husband Douglas’ story would be.

If you’ve strolled through River Ranch any time since 2007, there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with the Harringtons—whether at City Club, a neighborhood event, or walking their 3-pound Yorkie diva, Bonnie Blue Belle. This August is especially meaningful for the couple as they celebrate their 48th wedding anniversary on the 27th. And yes, their love story is one for the books.

Debra, originally from Port Neches, Texas, met Douglas, a lifelong Abbeville native, during a Christmas visit in her teens. Fate brought them together at a Beatles tribute concert in Abbeville, and just eleven days later, Douglas proposed. She was 17. He was 19. Nearly five decades later, their bond is stronger than ever—a beautiful example of love found early and nurtured deeply.

Together, they’ve built a life centered around family, faith, and hard work. Debra recently retired after 33 years as a registered nurse and nursing instructor, and Douglas has spent his career as a business owner, building H&H Satellite and Real Estate Rental Properties. Their family legacy runs deep: the women proudly represent three generations of nurses, and the men carry on the family business tradition.

Their hearts belong to their family—three children (Brandy, Christian, and Douglas Jr.), nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. During the holidays, their home buzzes with laughter, five generations strong, spanning ages one to 92. It’s a scene of fun, stories, and the smell of favorite family dishes like crawfish étouffée and pork roast.

When they’re not surrounded by loved ones, you might find Debra curled up with a good book or Douglas working out at Red’s or City Club. They're big fans of classic rock, vintage TV, and LSU sports (both men's and women’s!). They also love a good local meal—favorites include POUR, Ruffino’s, Romacelli’s, and, of course, dinner dates at City Club.

Their love of adventure extends far beyond Louisiana. The couple fell in love with Italy and recently checked off a bucket-list Alaskan cruise, walking together across Mendenhall Glacier. At home, their pets round out their joy-filled household—Bonnie Blue Belle may be small, but she’s the queen of the house, while Mollye the Ragdoll cat prefers a quiet day birdwatching from the courtyard.

The Harringtons are also passionate about community and preservation. They’re active parishioners at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, supporting historic preservation efforts close to their hearts.

When asked what they love most about River Ranch, Debra and Douglas don’t hesitate: “It’s peaceful and quiet, but there’s always something interesting going on,” they shared. “We feel incredibly blessed to call it home.”

Spend just a few minutes with Douglas and Debra, and you’ll feel the joy they carry with them. Theirs is a love that’s grown richer with time, a life filled with laughter, tradition, and the kind of connection we all hope to find. And if you ever find yourself outside the mailroom on a sunny afternoon, you just might catch Debra’s smile and understand exactly what I mean.