Kaduthuruthy: Sometimes, life offers its most beautiful companionship not in youth, but in old age. 76-year-old Thomas and 74-year-old Leelamma are proving just that. They have now decided to walk the rest of life’s journey together.

Kallara Kannarathil KC Thomas retired after serving in the Indian Air Force and later as a technical wing officer in the Kerala Police. His wife passed away in 2020. His son Alex lives in Australia with his family, while his married daughter Mercy, who lives locally, had been taking care of him.

Leelamma of Vammyal, Kaduthuruthy, lost her husband 16 years ago and had also been living alone for a long time. Her sons, Jomon and Jaimon, are settled in Italy.

Thomas and Leelamma first met one-and-a-half years ago at a private healthcare centre. Feeling a close bond, Thomas invited Leelamma to share his life, but she did not agree then. About a month and a half ago, Thomas repeated the proposal over the phone. Leelamma replied that she would speak to her children first. Eventually, both decided that they no longer wanted to live in loneliness and could instead support each other in their remaining years. Their children too supported their decision.

On Monday evening, Thomas and Leelamma joined hands in marriage at St Mary’s Puthenpally Church in Kallara. The simple ceremony, attended by relatives, was blessed by Fr. Abraham Tharathattel, a relative of Thomas. Thomas’s daughter and family, along with parish vicar Fr. Thomas Karimpumkalayil, were also present. A reception was later held at their home.