A 100-year-old couple have revealed the simple tradition that has helped keep their marriage strong for more than eight decades — a weekly breakfast date at McDonald’s.
John Carroll, aged 101, and his wife Jerry, aged 100, have become familiar faces at a Tennessee restaurant, where they continue to meet friends every Friday morning for breakfast.
The couple regularly visit the Murfreesboro McDonald’s location near Compton Road and Memorial Boulevard, where they enjoy the same meal and catch up with their friends.
John, a World War II veteran, said the weekly tradition has become an important part of their routine.
"We have breakfast down here every Friday morning with our friends," he told News Channel 5.
The couple usually order an Egg McMuffin with sausage, adding a slice of tomato to their sandwiches for an extra touch.
Over the years, the breakfast group has changed as people have come and gone, but John and Jerry have remained committed to their weekly gathering at the back of the restaurant.
The pair have also built a special relationship with staff at the restaurant, who look forward to seeing them arrive each week.
"We just love them," general manager Christina Crisp said.
"They've been here for a long time."
The couple, who have experienced the highs and lows of life together, believe kindness, patience and hard work are the foundations of a lasting marriage.
When asked about the secret to their relationship, John offered simple advice.
"Treat your wife nice," he said.
"Try to help her all you can and work hard. That's all we've had our ups and downs over the years, but we still made it."
