The average length of a first marriage in the United States is a mere eight years. TJ and Joy Teague might be inflating that number a bit after reaching an incredible milestone.
The couple united in wedlock on September 6, 1949; both were just 15 years old. Now the couple joyfully celebrates 75 years together. Their secret to success is consistency and sacrifice.
“You cannot have it all your way. You have to agree a little bit, lean over a little further, do a little more you would not do otherwise. But with both of you doing that, you can stay
together,” TJ Teague said.
Throughout their 75 years of marriage, the Teagues have cherished their time together, despite facing numerous challenges along the way.
“We were poor folks, poor with a big P,” TJ Teague said. “We had it real hard coming up.”
Both born in 1933, TJ and Joy each worked on a farm from sun up to sun down trying to help their families make ends meet. Things were still tough early on after they got married.
The first home the Teagues purchased was lost in a fire, which only made things harder for the couple. Yet they leaned on each other to pull through each and every difficult time.
“If we had a problem, we would try to discuss it and make sure we were on the same level,” Joy said. “We have had some real hard times, but we have pulled together on it. That is what I am most proud of.”
Even as they turn 91 this year (TJ in October, Joy in December), the two still enjoy each other’s company and have fun together.
“We still get along really good. I would not change any of it if I had the opportunity,” TJ Teague said.
After their wedding in 1949, the couple had three children: Robert, Linda, and Janet. Joy birthed all of them before she turned 21. The family lineage has grown since the birth of their children, as TJ and Joy now have five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
The couple knows that the family often looks up to them. This is something they have enjoyed as they have tried to set what they believe is a good example for all members of the family.
For several years, TJ and Joy’s family have come to their Whitesboro home for big events and holidays. For these gatherings, Joy will cook for the family, something she has loved to do for over 80 years.
The pair loves to have the whole family come see them as they tell stories and crack jokes with all who enter their home. However, that door is open for anybody to come through, sit down, have a plate, and provide company to the Teagues.
“When we bring everyone together, we always have room for one more in our house,” Joy Teague said. “We have a good relationship with everybody, all the in-laws and the outlaws.”
The couple welcomes company from friends and family as they celebrate this incredible milestone on Sept. 22 from 2-4 p.m. at Ranch 82 located at 12265 E US 82 in Whitesboro.
The family asks to please RSVP to Linda Tyler with a text to 903-818-0370.