102-year-old Leeds husband and wife, 72, have Valentine's Day advice for couples

A centenarian  and his wife have offered romantic advice to young couples celebrating Valentine’s Day.
Edgar and Linda KennedyEdgar and Linda Kennedy
Edgar and Linda Kennedy

Leeds couple Edgar and Linda Kennedy - who have been married for 44 years - said the secret to their marriage is to remain in love no matter what life throws at you.

Mr Kennedy aged 102 and his wife Linda 72, met at an operatic society rehearsal in South Yorkshire in 1972 when Linda was a singer in the chorus and Edgar was the society's new musical director.

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The couple married in October 1975 and lived in South Yorkshire before moving to Leeds.

Edgar and Linda KennedyEdgar and Linda Kennedy
Edgar and Linda Kennedy

They lived in Yeadon for 24 years until January 2019, when Edgar, who has dementia, moved to Anchor's Beech Hall care home in Armley.

Mr Kennedy, a retired British Rail signalman and railway station line manager, said: “Our most romantic day was our wedding day and since then every day has been special.

"Our shared interest in music meant we got on from the very start and we have been in love ever since. That’s the secret to our long marriage.

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“Valentine’s Day is a chance to show you care for someone you love and we are still in love after 44 years of marriage.”

Edgar and Linda Kennedy on their wedding day in 1975.Edgar and Linda Kennedy on their wedding day in 1975.
Edgar and Linda Kennedy on their wedding day in 1975.

Mrs Kennedy, a retired Cornhill Insurance worker, said : “My advice to young couples is to have your own interests as well as the same interests.”

Mrs Kennedy said her husband was in the Salvation Army Band when he was younger and went onto become a conductor.

He was involved in Yeadon Male Voice Choir and was also the conductor of Otley Brass Band for around ten years.

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Mrs Kennedy said her husband has dementia, adding: "It is difficult. It is easier now he is in Beech Hall because he is getting the care he needs.

Edgar and Linda KennedyEdgar and Linda Kennedy
Edgar and Linda Kennedy

"I looked after him at home for about eight years and it became very difficult as the disease gradually progressed.

"He has settled at Beech Hall now quite well and that's a huge relief to me.

"He looks forward to me going to visit and he still knows who I am.

"He helped to make a Valentine's card for me."

Beech Hall Manager Vicky Gudgin, said: " said: "Older people have a lifetime of experience when it comes to love so it’s great Edgar and Linda can offer younger couples advice."

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