While some couples have given marriage a bad name, a couple Julio Cesar Mora Tapia and Waldramina Maclovia Quinteros Reyes have proved otherwise. Being married for 79 years, they shared their relationship secrets.
The couple who hold the Guinness World Records for the oldest marriage both share a combined age of 214. Julio is 110 while his beloved wife is 104 years. They got married in Luis Sodiro, Quito on February 7, 1941. It was a secret ceremony with few close friends in attendance because their family didn’t want them to marry.
The two lovebirds from Ecuador have five children, 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren. According to them, they are still very much in love like when they were dating.
In a joint statement the couple said:
“Family unity under the rules of love, mutual respect, honest work, and proper education based on family values are the keys to healthy coexistence. The love and maturity that we had as a couple from the beginning of the marriage allowed us to know each other and grow emotionally to define our future. It was not easy because our relatives did not have a good relationship, but with time and patience we were able to unite them and we became an example and the best reference for the younger generations.”
The couple added:
“It is a great honour and pride to have a Guinness World Records title because it is the highest award that the world recognises. It is true that at this time it is difficult because we are overwhelmed by the pandemic that affects the world and we still do not have a solution. However, the first step for us to follow the rules with respect and love life.”