Centenary Sweethearts
Jane Ming and Tom Ellis met after coin toss
“We met in 1948 at Choir Camp, which was held each year at Camp Beene Aire on Lake Bistineau the week before classes started. At the end of the week, when we prepared to go to our dorms, there were three fellows and three girls who had become good buddies and we all decided to go to a movie, but no one knew who would pick up whom at the dorm. So, the boys flipped a coin—and Tom (known as Tommy then) got me! And, as the saying goes, the rest is history.
“Three years later, six weeks before our graduation, we were married. Many of the choir members were in our wedding in Beaumont, Texas. And, Cheesy Voran, the choir director, who was constantly ‘playing cupid,’ was our soloist. Recently, we celebrated our 55th anniversary. If we had that nickel still, we would frame it!
“Tom, a geologist, retired in December 2004 after over 50 years in the oil business—the last 10 as an independent. We live in Houston, in the Katy area, and have four daughters, who with their families, which include five grandchildren, also live in Houston. What a blessing!
“We have Centenary to thank not only for a great education, but as a place to make lasting friends and wonderful memories. And, best of all, for bringing us together.”
—Jane Ming Ellis ’51