99-Year-Old PA Man Ties The Knot
FOLSOM, Pa. (AP) — Francis Doyle, age 99, said he's getting used to the simple question, "Why?"
After recently marrying his girlfriend of two years, Mary Waltz Doyle, 88, of Springfield, curious people have asked the couple frequently, "Why bother to get married at your age?"
"I answer the same every time," stated the nonagenarian from the Folsom section of the township. "I say 'Why not?' and then I go on to explain that we are Christians and getting married is the right thing to do. We are from the old school and we both believe that living together without getting married is living in sin."
The couple professed their vows at Chambers Memorial Presbyterian Church in Rutledge in front of about 100 family members and friends on Saturday, October 22. Rev. Pamela McShane officiated at the ceremony, which was followed by a festive reception in the church hall.
Evelyn Petre, a resident of the Folsom section of Ridley Township, stood witness as Matron of Honor and Jim Pearce of Morton was Best Man.
The bride wore a long navy blue gown and a white blazer. The groom donned a new suit and tie. Everyone in both of their families, with the exception of one grandchild, attended the nuptials. Wedding guests came from all over, including North Carolina, Texas, Indiana, Virginia and other places.
Francis and Mary have known each other for about 40 years through their affiliation to Chambers Memorial Presbyterian Church. They also knew each other's former spouses.
Francis was married 67 years to Martina, producing two children, three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Mary was married for 26 years to her husband Frank, producing four children, 14 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild and another on the way.
With both of their spouses deceased, the pair continued being active in their church. Mary, who served as a deacon, volunteered her services to drive church members, who were unable to drive, to doctors' appointments, food shopping and other necessary errands. She also volunteered to bring food to shut-ins. As fate would have it, Francis was among those that needed rides to his doctor. When Mary began taking Francis for his appointments and bringing him some meals, she also began talking with him on a regular basis and forming a solid friendship. They began to see each other more and more frequently.
When Francis popped the question after two years of dating, Mary said she was very surprised.
"We were out to dinner at Antonia's in Swarthmore," Mary remembered with a smile. "I was genuinely surprised. I didn't expect it, but I said yes right away."
"I'm full of surprises," Francis laughed. "I thought, Mary is by herself in her home and I was by myself in mine so why not join forces."
The new Mr. and Mrs. Doyle said they both checked with their children to be sure they were OK with the whole idea.
"My kids thought it was a great idea as soon as I told them," Mary said with a joyful chuckle.
The newlyweds have not taken a honeymoon yet, but they said they are looking forward to an upcoming road trip to Battleship Cove, Mass.
Francis, who was a motor machinist first class in the U.S. Navy, said he is looking forward to visiting the battleship USS Massachusetts.
Mary said she does mostly all the driving now and will also be the driver for the Massachusetts trip.
Although retired now, both Francis and Mary were professional drivers in earlier years. Francis drove a tractor-trailer for Abbotts Dairy for over 40 years. Mary drove for Community Transit for 28 years and for Wheat Service for ten years.
The newlyweds attribute their health and longevity to never smoking or drinking.
"I always thought once was enough when it came to marriage," Francis commented as he looked lovingly at his bride last week. "But then I got to know Mary and that all changed. I just knew I wouldn't be truly happy unless I married her."
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