When Portland’s iconic Lloyd Center Mall officially closed its doors for good after decades of history, an elderly figure skating couple stepped out onto its ice rink for one final, emotional performance.
Jerry and Tally Leonard glided across the white surface hand in hand, wearing matching blue outfits. Hundreds of local spectators packed all three levels of the balconies to watch their farewell performance.
The husband and wife duo first met on that exact ice rink back in 1967. They married a few years later in 1971.
Starting in the late 1970s, they kept a strict routine of skating together four days a week. It became a beloved staple for shoppers and young skaters passing through the atrium.
For nearly sixty years, that shopping center arena was their second home.
This final performance was emotional for them and all those who grew up visiting the mall over the decades. As the music faded at the end of their routine, the pair embraced tightly. That warm hug tells us how much that cold sheet of ice meant to them through nearly six decades together.
The surrounding crowd erupted into applause. Spectators began tossing red roses and flower bouquets down onto the ice around them.
What a lovely send off for this beautiful couple. Hope Jerry and Tally Leonard get new opportunities to do what they love, both on and off the ice.
WATCH: Jerry and Tally Leonard Skate Final Routine at Portland’s Lloyd Center Rink
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