What is the key to a long, happy marriage and lasting friendships? For Jim and Cindy Conway and Steve and Gina Moon, the answer lies in love, laughter, and support. Their journeys are more than individual stories—they’re intertwined testaments to the strength of both marriage and friendship, offering a model for living a life grounded in meaningful connections.
This isn’t just a love story of two couples. It’s a celebration of the bonds that extend beyond marriage, showcasing how deeply rooted friendships can enrich every aspect of life. Through decades of shared experiences, the Conways and Moons have demonstrated to their friends, family, and community what love, in all its forms, truly looks like. Their lives stand as a shining example of how strong relationships create lasting legacies of joy and connection.
Jim and Cindy Conway: A Love Rooted in Resilience
Jim and Cindy Conway’s story began in 1977 and this August, the Conways will celebrate 47 years of marriage—a journey that started in downtown Kankakee, Illinois, when Jim, then 19, met 16-year-old Cindy while cruising “the square.”
“Jim was my first boyfriend, and he ended up being my last,” Cindy recalls with a smile.
Their love story blossomed quickly. Jim was Cindy’s date for school dances, and he stood proudly by her side when she was crowned Herscher Homecoming Labor Day Queen. The couple knew from the start that they were meant to be together, marrying young with the support of Cindy’s parents.
On their wedding day, as they drove to the courthouse, “Always & Forever” by Heatwave played on the radio—a song that became their lifelong anthem. Their modest celebration included washing Jim’s Pontiac Grand Prix and honeymooning in Tennessee, where they visited Elvis Presley’s home.
In 1981, they moved to Allen, Texas, with their two young children, Michael and Jennifer. Back then, Allen was a quiet town with just one stoplight, but it became the backdrop for a life built on love, resilience, and family.
In 1988, Cindy and Jim marked their anniversary with a heartfelt vow renewal at St. Jude Catholic Church—a meaningful promise Cindy had made to her parents. The ceremony was intended to be a beautiful reaffirmation of their love, but it took an unexpected turn when Jim fainted mid-ceremony, leaving threir guests momentarily stunned.
What could have been a moment of panic quickly turned into a lighthearted memory. Despite the scare, the couple exchanged their vows and were officially “married” again, walking away with not only a renewed commitment but also a story they’ve been laughing about ever since
Over the years, the Conways faced their share of challenges but found strength in each other. They raised their children while staying active in their community—Jim coached Cub Scouts, and Cindy led ASA cheerleading. In 1989, they launched Conway Corndogs from their Allen home. What began as a small venture grew into a thriving business featured at major Dallas-Fort Worth events.
Their 48 years together are based on love, trust, loyalty and truly being each others best friends. Now, as grandparents to five, the Conways reflect on a life filled with love and perseverance. “All those challenges can either make you or break you,” Cindy says. “We chose to let the heartbreaks make us stronger.”
Steve and Gina Moon: A Partnership Built on Trust and Laughter
Steve and Gina Moon’s story began in 1981, at Arizona State University, where Gina was Steve’s supervisor in the housing department—a playful dynamic that Steve jokes hasn’t changed. This 42-year marriage exemplifies the strength that comes from trust, humor, and shared passions.
After marrying in California, they moved to Allen, Texas, early in their marriage, a decision that would shape their lives in countless ways. Allen became their home, where they raised their two children, Brennan and Miranda, who both graduated from Allen High School. The Moons also became deeply connected to the community, building lifelong friendships along the way.
The Moons credit their lasting partnership to core values like trust, loyalty, and a healthy sense of humor. “Being able to laugh together, even in tough times, makes all the difference,” Steve says.
Their shared interests have also strengthened their bond. Together, they’ve explored the world, golfed, played pickleball, and attended social events, creating countless memories. Whether on the pickleball court or planning their next adventure, their shared activities have deepened their connection.
Reflecting on their journey, Steve and Gina feel immense gratitude for the life they’ve built. Their story is a testament to the power of love, humor, and partnership.
The Friendship That Became Family
When Jim and Cindy Conway moved to Allen in 1981, they never imagined they’d gain lifelong friends in their neighbors, Steve and Gina Moon. The bond began with a simple flyer—Steve was organizing a neighborhood men’s softball team. Jim, already active in local leagues, eagerly joined, setting the stage for a 40-year friendship.
Despite differences in their children’s ages, the Conways’ and Moons’ kids—Michael, Jennifer, Brennan, and Miranda—grew up like siblings. The families created countless memories through vacations, boating trips, coed sports leagues, and Eagles concerts.
Their friendship has been a source of strength through life’s highs and lows, from celebrating marriages to navigating loss and hardship. Now, as grandparents to eight collectively, (Hunter, Ashlynn, Addyson, Savannah, Alexis, Caleb, Carly & Cambry) they continue to share in life’s milestones, never having lived more than a mile apart in four decades.
As 2025 approaches, the Conways and Moons prepare to celebrate 40 years of friendship—a bond that has stood the test of time. Their story is a powerful reminder of how love, whether in marriage or friendship, can create a legacy of joy, resilience, and connection. Together, they’ve shown their community what it truly means to love thy neighbor.
This isn’t just a love story of two couples. It’s a celebration of the bonds that extend beyond marriage...
Together, they’ve shown their community what it truly means to love thy neighbor.