John and Charlotte Henderson’s upcoming 80th wedding anniversary on 15 December has just taken on an extra-special sparkle with the Texan couple named the oldest living couple by the Guinness Book of World Records.
The pair met in class at The University of Texas in 1934 while Charlotte was studying to become a teacher and John was playing for the university’s football team before marrying five years later in 1939.
The couple, who have no children, have lived at a local retirement village Longhorn Village for the past decade.
So, what’s the secret to their long marriage – and long life?
“Living in moderation,” Mr Henderson said in a previous interview. “We never overdo anything. Eat well. Sleep well. Don’t over-drink. Don’t overeat. And exercise regularly.”
“We had such a good time when John retired. We traveled a lot,” Mrs Henderson added. “We just stay busy all the time, and I’m sure that helps.”
Mr Henderson also said it comes down to being polite to your spouse (very important) and a positive attitude, although he acknowledges other people chalk up their longevity to another reason.
“Some people think it’s because we never had kids!”
Either way, it’s clear the couple has found their ‘happily ever after’.
