Not many couples can say they’ve known each other practically their whole lives, but Joel and Carolyn LaPray can. Their remarkable love story began more than eight decades ago when they were just toddlers, and today, after 64 years of marriage, they continue to inspire everyone around them with their unwavering bond and lifelong commitment.
Their story started in the early 1940s in Idaho, where their families lived as neighbors and shared a close friendship. With parents who often spent time together, Joel and Carolyn naturally became playmates as young children. Life, however, had its own twists and turns. During World War II, both families relocated, and for years, their paths diverged. Fate had other plans though, eventually bringing them back together in Utah during their teenage years.
By the time high school rolled around, Joel and Carolyn were once again part of each other’s lives. Joel, who had already decided in his heart that Carolyn was the one for him, asked her to the military ball when they were just sophomores. Carolyn wasn’t entirely sure how she felt back then, but Joel’s confidence and kind heart slowly won her over. Their friendship deepened, and by their senior year, it blossomed into something more. They started spending more time together, and before long, love was undeniable between them.
After graduating high school, they both attended Utah State University. Their bond only grew stronger during that time, and after completing their first year of college, they decided to tie the knot. It was the beginning of a life built on love, trust, and shared dreams.
Now, 64 years later, Joel and Carolyn are still side by side, proving that lifelong love isn’t just something from fairytales—it’s real and lasting. The family they’ve built over the years is nothing short of extraordinary. They are parents to six children, grandparents to 25, and great-grandparents to 33, creating a legacy of love that now includes a total of 70 family members. Joel jokes that at this point, he’s stopped keeping count.
One of the most cherished memories from their wedding day remains a special black-and-white photo of them as toddlers. Joel’s mother had a friend turn that photo into a painting as a wedding gift. They displayed it next to their wedding cake with a sign that read, “Joel and Carolyn, their first date.” Decades later, that painting still holds a place of honor in their home, symbolizing the incredible journey they’ve shared since childhood.
When asked about the secret to their long and happy marriage, Joel’s answer came with a smile and no hesitation: “We each have different opinions, we compromise, we do it her way.” Carolyn chimed in, hinting at the timeless saying, “Happy wife, happy life.” Joel nodded in agreement, adding that as long as “momma” is happy, everyone’s happy—and that’s always been his goal.
Their story is more than just a tale of love; it’s a testament to the power of patience, understanding, and unwavering dedication. In a world where relationships often face countless challenges, Joel and Carolyn are living proof that true love can endure a lifetime. Not everyone gets the rare blessing of marrying someone they’ve known since diapers, but for this couple, it’s been the foundation of a love story that has stood the test of time.
