Despite changes around them, love remains constant in Zannis' marriage

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Benedetto Zanni and his wife, Vilma Croce Zanni, have seen countless changes since they were married on May 28, 1949.

For starters, the old St. Rocco’s Church on Clemence Street in Cranston, where the couple was wed, is now houses and apartments.

Likewise, Myrtle Hall – where the Zannis enjoyed their wedding reception – is also a thing of the past.

So Sunday, after reaffirming their vows at Our Lady of Grace Church on at 4 Lafayette Ave. in Johnston, Ben and Vilma got into a black stretch limousine that carried the couple to the Santa Maria DiPrata Society at 29 Walnut Grove Ave. in Cranston, where they were treated and toasted with a 70th anniversary party.

Upon their arrival – even before the fun, food and fellowship fest began – there were friends and family who set aside everything they had to do to help make the couple’s 70th anniversary party extraordinary.

“Hey Ben, is that the same limo you rode in back in 1949?” an elderly man asked the now 92-year-old Benedetto Zanni. Dressed in black tie and a tuxedo, he smiled and replied: “No, that car was already booked for another party.”

The Zannis enjoyed time with their family, including three daughters and as many sons, along with their respective spouses. They are Ken and Tenesia Zanni Turner; Marysue Zanni Andreozzi; Bill and Sylvia Zanni Sgambato; Bernardo and Nancy Zanni; Bennie and Celia Zanni; and Christopher and Julie Zanni. The couple also has 13 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.

One of their daughters, Sylvia E. Zanni Sgambato, said their parents have “always been the cornerstones of our family.”

“Their long marriage can be attributed to commitment and trust in each other as well as their family and friends,” Sylvia added.

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