Couple Recognized as 'Longest Married' by Worldwide Marriage Encounter

Family Photo

John and Ann Betar of Fairfield, Connecticut have been recognized by Worldwide Marriage Encounter as the couple in the United States that have been married the longest. The two that have become one were married on November 25, 1932.

On that day in 2013, they will have been married for 81 years. The organization recognizing them realizes there could actually be another married couple that has been married longer, but the Betars are representative of those that have been specifically nominated for the recognition.

John Betar is now 101 years old, while his younger bride, Ann, has reached the age of 97.

As for family, they have five children, 14 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren.

In a romantic twist to the story, the Ann had had a marriage arranged for her by her parents, but her and John eloped and went against the wishes of her parents. That may not seem as big a deal today, but back in the 1930s that was a very bold step to take.

Photo: David Gunn

 

When asked about the secret of their longevity, John said, "We just live with contentment and we don’t live beyond our means."

In other words, they didn't live a stressful life together. Now those are words we all need to take into account.