An Aberdeen couple are perfectly placed to give lessons in love this Valentine’s Day – as it will be the 62nd time they will celebrate February 14th together.
And Jimmy Mathers, 93, and wife Betty, 84, believe they can give couples of all ages some simple tips for a long and happy marriage: it’s all about give and take.
The doting pair is celebrating this Valentine’s at Meallmore’s Sunnybank care home in Cruden Bay, where Jim has lived since 2016, with Betty joining him in April of last year.
Jimmy and Betty first set eyes on each other when Betty, originally from Dundee, visited Aberdeenshire on holiday as a teenager. Their families were mutual friends and, after a church service, Betty and her family were invited back to Jimmy’s parents’ farm, Broadmuir, to see some of the new-born lambs. Jimmy says he knew even then that she was the one for him.
However, it was a number of years before their paths finally crossed again. When they did, romance blossomed quickly and Jimmy got down on one knee on 28th December 1955. They were married the following year on 1st August 1956 – a Wednesday, which is traditional for farmers. They have been inseparable ever since and have four children, Colin, Maureen, Brian and Alan.
Ann Lamont, Activity Coordinator at Meallmore’s Sunnybank care home, said: “Betty and Jim have always been a very social couple and still are to this day. They lived in Jim’s family home and say family visited regularly and their door was always open. They enjoy having company and still have lots of visitors – both family and friends.
“They are still very much devoted to each other. Betty is very attentive and is always taking care of Jim.
“Jim came to join us September 2016 and Betty moved in on April 2017, so it’s wonderful that they are both near one another again. Our main aim now is to ensure they continue to enjoy a happy life together.
“It’s lovely to have such a real example of true love with us at the home on Valentine’s Day.”
