Introduction to a Lifetime of Love
These long-time lovebirds are a rare breed. The newly crowned "world’s oldest married couple" are a charming pair of former Big Apple centenarians who met during World War II – and now swear by the power of staying curious, drinking midday beers and simply "loving each other."
A Combined Age of 216 Years
With a combined age of 216 years and 132 days, Eleanor and Lyle, of Miami, received the title of Guinness World Records on Wednesday. They were married more than 83 years ago and were also named the "world’s longest married couple."
A Love Story Born in Wartime
The couple met in 1941 while attending Clark Atlanta University and married on June 4, 1942, in Bradenton, Florida. Lyle, who had been drafted for the war, was given a three-day pass for Army training at Fort Benning in Georgia and was forced to return shortly after the marriage.
Separated by War
Lyle was soon sent to Italy to fight in the 92nd Infantry Division, while 24-year-old Eleanor, who was pregnant, moved to New York City, where she met Lyle’s family for the first time. She got a job as a payroll clerk for a company that made aircraft parts for combat overseas and later became a public school teacher.
Life After the War
After returning home from the war, Lyle got a government job working for New York State at the World Trade Center. After a long day in the 1950s, the hard-working couple began their evening martini ritual together. They now keep the tradition going by drinking Modelo or a glass of red wine with lunch.
Secrets to a Long and Happy Marriage
Over the years, the couple lived in Brooklyn and had three children together. Eleanor earned her doctorate in urban education from Fordham University at age 69. When asked about the secret behind their marriage’s longevity, Eleanor said: "We just got together… We love each other." Lyle simply said, "I love my wife. It’s simple."
A Legacy of Love
The couple received the title of “longest married couple” this week. They swear by the power of staying curious, drinking midday beers, and simply "loving each other." Their love story is an inspiration to many, and their legacy will live on for generations to come.
