To have, yet never too old: 76 year old June bride to marry her 82 year old groom

“Every day we have the opportunity to make special memories for those we serve,” says Geoff Fraser, partner of Clear Choice Health Care of Melbourne FL.

An engaged couple will marry at the same site of their first date: In front of an outdoor water fountain at East Bay Rehabilitation Center in Clearwater, Florida where both reside.
With a combined age of 158, they will vow ’til death do us part to become one of the oldest newlyweds in the United States.
During a June 30 ceremony at 2 pm, Fil Jacobs and Sue Moss plan to exchange wedding vows before Reverend Christina Brennan (who also happens to be the event’s soloist and the facility’s human resources coordinator).
Retired office manager, 82 year old Fil Jacobs looks forward to his union with whom he calls his sweetheart, 76 year old Sue Moss. Surrounded by staff and well-wishers at East Bay Rehabilitation Center, the couple will have the rare honor of also exchanging their wedding vows in front of their grandchildren, family and friends.
Almost two years ago, Sue had to overcome many health problems and was admitted to East Bay Rehab Center under the care of Hospice with life threatening heart conditions. “They told me I might not make it through the year.”
Love and exceptional care have given her renewed well-being and her eyes glimmer as Fil talks about how he got down on one knee to propose. “Not an easy task for someone in my condition,” says Fil.
For the last forty years Fil has been in steady decline from diabetes. His neuropathy got so bad that he was regularly falling at home and being admitted to the hospital. Finally, he decided that he would be safest under the care of skilled nursing.
“It was a great decision, because I really feel that I’ve found a large extended family that cares about my welfare,” says Fil. He beams as he talks about the upcoming celebration with all his newfound relationships.
“We want to make the ceremony special for the couple,” says Administrator Maggie Dalton. “It’s going to be a group collaboration to help them start their new life together and there’s a lot of joy in helping our residents on their big day. We might have a few surprises too.”
One surprise could involve tying ribbons and cans to the back of their wheelchairs and give rise to the clamor as the couple heads into their reception area.
The lovestruck pair plans to stay home for the honeymoon and most likely spend more time in front of their wellspring. “We call it the ‘Church of the Fountain,'” says Fil.
The evergreen couple will continue residing at East Bay Rehabilitation Center. “We’re in a good spot,” says Sue. “With a lot of great people who give great care to seniors like us,” says Fil, “Really, it feels like we’re living with one big happy family.”
“We’re so proud to make this event special for everyone involved,” says Fraser.