NATCHEZ — John Ratcliff, 81, delicately combed his wife’s hair taking time to make sure it passed the test for his wife of 64 years.

“I just kind of fluff it up here and there,” John said.

“He learned how to do it when I was in the hospital,” Helen said. “He does a great job.”

John laughs.

When The Dart landed on Magnolia Street in Natchez Thursday, John was caring for Helen while they watched Wheel of Fortune, one of their favorite television shows.

In recent years, John’s role of husband has drastically changed to that of caretaker.

While Helen, 83, still has her wits, her body is beginning to stop cooperating.

Along with several other immobilizing issues, Helen is a two-time survivor of breast cancer and is dealing with glaucoma that has taken away the majority of her vision.

“I always stay positive,” Helen said. “ But I don’t think John ever dreamed he would be doing all this stuff.”

John does all the chores around the house as well as making all the meals and helping Helen when she needs assistance.

John approaches this stage of their marriage the same way he has for 64 years.

“We have always been there for each other,” he said. “That’s why we have lasted so long.”

The couple met in high school in Lincoln County.

John worked at International Paper for 44 years and retired in 1995. Helen was a substitute teacher and volunteered at the hospital.

They raised two children that gave them four grandchildren and now two great grandchildren.

Their once busy life now revolves around reminiscing, television and old movies. They love the little things.

“The other day I fixed us a bowl of chili, and we liked it so much,” John said. “We hadn’t had chili in years.”

The two still simply enjoy each other’s company.

“We live a good life,” Helen said.

“Yeah, she fires me quite often, but she is always quick to rehire me,” John joked.