Mary Berry Celebrates Nearly 60 Years of Marriage While Upholding Cherished Traditions

Dame Mary Berry, a beloved food writer and television personality, has recently reflected on her marriage of nearly 60 years to Paul Hunnings. At 90 years old, she continues to celebrate her life and career as she prepares to debut in the new BBC series, Mary at 90: A Lifetime of Cooking. Alongside the series, she has published a cookbook titled Mary 90: My Very Best Recipes to mark her milestone birthday.
Reflecting on a Lasting Marriage
In an interview with Radio Times, Mary discussed the evolution of her relationship with her husband, Paul, who is now 93. She describes him as having “mellowed” over the years, expressing more appreciation for her efforts. Mary’s dedication to her marriage remains steadfast, as she emphasizes the vows they took: “For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer.”
Coping with Marital Disagreements
Mary attributes part of their marital harmony to her ability to manage disagreements. Rather than engaging in conflict, she opts for a tranquil escape into nature. “If any disagreements come up, I open the back door and just go out and maybe pick some flowers or get some apples,” she explains. This approach helps her find peace during challenging moments.
Interestingly, Mary mentions that Paul often humorously states, “The secret to our long marriage is saying, ‘Yes, dear’ to everything,” a testament to their humorous dynamic.
Family and Resilience
Mary also reflects on the heartache she faced with the loss of her son, William, who tragically died in a car accident in 1989 at the age of 19. Despite this profound loss, she finds strength in her surviving family. “I think of William every day. Of course I do,” she shares, noting her pride in him.
- Mary has two other children, Annabel and Tom.
- She feels immensely grateful for her grandchildren.
- Mary emphasizes the importance of family support in coping with loss.
As she approaches her 60th wedding anniversary, Mary Berry’s combination of tradition, humor, and reflection on her cherished family values reveals the essence of a long-lasting marriage. Her journey through life celebrates enduring love, resilience, and the joys of family.