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Couple's 75th Anniversary Surprise: They're Still 74!
18 Feb
Summary
- A Pennsylvania couple discovered they were married 74 years, not 75.
- The discovery was made via an Ancestry.com search of their marriage certificate.
- The couple met in high school and married in Virginia before the Korean War.

Ed and Sally Wagner, a couple from Pennsylvania, were preparing to commemorate their 75th wedding anniversary when a surprising discovery altered their plans. Their son-in-law's research on Ancestry.com revealed their marriage certificate from February 9, 1952, indicating they had been married for 74 years, not the anticipated 75.
This discovery did not dampen their spirits, as Sally humorously noted, "When you're married this long, who cares?" The couple, now 95 and 92, were high school sweethearts who crossed state lines to marry in Virginia because Sally's mother would not sign the papers in Pennsylvania. Their union preceded Ed's draft into the Army and deployment to the Korean War.
Following Ed's return, they established their home in Greensburg, Westmoreland County, where they have resided for 68 years. They raised three children and have since welcomed nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Their journey has included overcoming personal losses and health challenges, including the death of their eldest son in 2017 and Sally's heart surgery in 2021.
Despite facing adversity, including Ed's vision issues and a past infection, their devotion remains evident. They continue to enjoy simple activities together, earning them the nickname 'the porch people.' Ed attributes their enduring marriage to "not dying" and his reliance on Sally, who emphasizes their mutual support and enduring love.




