Centenarians (almost) celebrate 77 years of marriage

At 99 and 100 years old, Irene and Neville Keen aren’t just defying the odds, they’re making history with what it means to grow old together.

Married for an incredible 77 years, their love story which began in the 1940s, is one of the rarest in Australia.

Now residing under the same roof at Peninsula Villages, the couple has shared a lifetime of devotion, faith and resilience.

In the lead up to Valentine’s Day, the Keens were asked about their lasting love and Irene simply said: “there is no secret, we just get along”.

Neville, with a twinkle in his eye and a big smile, joked, “Well, it’s certainly been a long time”.

From meeting as childhood sweethearts at a church in Sydney to raising a family and dedicating their lives to service, the couple have enjoyed a wonderful life together.

Neville worked as a clergyman and Irene as a stenographer, enjoying a shared passion for sharing knowledge with others.

Peninsula Villages CEO Colin Osborne said the village celebrated their rare and remarkable milestone with a special tribute, honouring a love story that has spanned nearly eight decades.

“Each Valentine’s Day the news is filled with wonderful stories of love but it’s always nice to hear about the more unexpected ones, in this case a couple who are quite simply, ageing together within the same village,” he said.

“In a world where lasting love stories are increasingly rare, Irene and Neville are a living testament to true commitment.

“Their bond is an inspiration and it’s a privilege to have them as part of our community.”

When Irene and Neville married in 1948, the world was a very different place.

Ration books were still in use after World War II, television had yet to arrive in Australia, and a loaf of bread cost just a few pence.

“At a time when many couples are separated due to health or living circumstances, Irene and Neville’s ability to stay together under Peninsula Villages’ care highlights the organisation’s commitment to fostering love, companionship and continuity in aged care,” Osbone said.

“Their story serves as a powerful reminder that love isn’t just about grand gestures, it’s about a lifetime of shared moments, resilience and unwavering commitment.

“This is an incredibly rare milestone, fewer than 1% of couples both reach 100, and only a small fraction make it to 77 years of marriage.

“Irene and Neville’s story is a true testament to love, longevity and commitment.”