Elderly Duo Ties The Knot In Pool Where Their Love First Bloomed During Water Aerobics

Nov 26, 2025 by apost team

Love stories can unfold in the most unexpected settings. For one senior couple in Illinois, their journey began in a place filled with movement, laughter and warm community spirit: a YMCA swimming pool. That very pool at the Collinsville Maryville Troy YMCA in Maryville became far more than a fitness venue – it became the foundation of a romance that would eventually inspire a wedding celebration unlike any other.

Edward LaRue, 82, and Marlene Parsons, 78, met during their water aerobics sessions, where their playful interactions quickly turned into something meaningful. As Parsons shared while speaking with First Alert 4, “I liked him,” recalling the spark that started with lighthearted moments in the pool. According to her, their flirtation was immediate and joyful: “We splashed each other in the pool.”

Their connection strengthened after their first date in December 2023. Both had suffered the loss of their spouses six years earlier, and though their bond grew naturally, they hesitated at the thought of remarrying. As Parsons explained, “We really didn’t want to get married because we had both lost someone.” Despite this, love continued to deepen. When LaRue proposed, Parsons took her time, waiting a full year before saying “yes.”

The YMCA’s aquatics director, Alie Morgan, who had recently received her minister’s license, suggested an unconventional idea: a wedding held in the same waters where their story began.

“Hey, you guys met in the pool, you should get married in the pool,” she had told them, adding that she could officiate. Morgan later confessed to First Alert 4, “I didn’t think they would take me seriously.”

Yet, the couple embraced the idea, choosing to honor their love in a setting that symbolized both healing and joy.

On Nov. 12, 2025, surrounded by loved ones and watched over by a lifeguard, LaRue and Parsons exchanged vows while standing in the YMCA pool. Their attire added a whimsical touch: LaRue wore a tuxedo-themed swim shirt, swim trunks and a black top hat, while Parsons opted for a white bridal swimsuit paired with a tulle skirt and veil.

The celebration included traditions adapted for the aquatic setting, such as a bouquet dance and a first dance in the water. Guests were treated to cake after the ceremony, making the day feel both familiar and unique. As LaRue shared, “It was great,” expressing his joy over a wedding crafted to reflect their personal story.

Photos shared by the YMCA on Facebook captured the couple descending the pool steps hand in hand, exchanging vows in the water and sealing their union with a kiss. Parsons carried a small bouquet, adding a sweet, traditional touch to the otherwise playful scene. 

The YMCA wrote in its post:

“What a beautiful day for a wedding in our pool! Congratulations to our members Ed and Marlene (who) were married in our pool today surrounded by family and friends. Our very own Alie Morgan even officiated the ceremony!” 

The post ended with warm wishes, reading:

“We wish you years of love and happiness!”

LaRue himself joined the comments, sharing:

“Great time was had by all. Especially the bride and groom.”

Stories like theirs highlight how love can bloom in ordinary spaces and remind us that connection often arises when we least expect it. Their wedding not only celebrated their devotion but also honored the community space that brought them together. For many, it’s a heartwarming example of how shared experiences can spark companionship at any stage of life.

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This heartwarming poolside wedding reminds us that second chances are always possible. Do you know someone who found love later in life? If so, let us know, and then pass this article along to spread a little joy today!