Married for more than 71 years, John and Marie Chiles have shared a remarkable life together rooted in partnership, curiosity, and an enduring sense of adventure. For the past 17 years, they’ve chosen to call Edgemere, a premier senior living community in Dallas, home.
Their long-lived love story began during the Korean War, when both were stationed in England with the U.S. Air Force. John served as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer, while Marie was the Base Administrative Officer. Their professional paths crossed, and before long, John proposed. They were married in England and honeymooned in Switzerland.
The marriage has certainly been a success. The 99-year-old Marie — who is looking forward to celebrating her 100th birthday in May — still jokingly refers to the younger John as her “trophy husband.” John, for his part, is proud of the united front they present and their shared history. “We’ve been together for so long that if you ask either of us a question, you’ll get the same answer,” he said.
After leaving military service, the couple returned to the United States and began “living in the real world” together, with Waxahachie-native John convincing Long Islander Marie to return to his home state of Texas. Along the way, the Chiles lived in Houston, Waco, and eventually Dallas, building a life filled with meaningful work, travel, and deep connections to the communities around them.
John pursued a legal career that eventually led him to Exxon, where he worked for more than 26 years before retiring at age 52 as Senior Staff Counsel. Marie left the business world in 1960 to become a full-time volunteer and philanthropist, and over the years has served on the boards of several non-profits, including The Blue Birds Circle at Methodist Hospital, the Houston Symphony, and Holly Hail Retirement Community. In addition, she was Director of the Barnes Decorative Arts Course for Hispanic Waco Foundation, Coordinator of the Friends of the Decorative Arts at the Dallas Museum of Art, and Special Projects Coordinator at the Dallas Heritage Society for Old City Park, The Historic Village of Dallas.
The couple have both made significant 
contributions to Baylor University (John’s alma mater), supporting the on-campus Mayborn Museum during its creation, and establishing funds and scholarships while serving on several advisory boards for both the law school and the Louise Herrington School of Nursing.
Life at Edgemere
As they approached their later years, they recognized the importance of planning ahead. When John was nearing 80, the dynamic couple decided it was time to make a move and Edgemere felt like the right fit.
They were drawn to the community by the welcoming atmosphere, but it was the people who truly made the difference. “The people here have been extraordinary over the years,” John said. “They have wonderful stories to tell, and it’s a great group of people.”
At Edgemere, John and Marie stay actively engaged socially, intellectually, and culturally. They participate on committees at Edgemere while staying connected to the broader community and taking full advantage of Dallas’s rich cultural offerings.
On campus, the couple enjoy the informal and formal dining options at Edgemere, noting the quality and variety of the cuisine. “The food is very good,” John said. “But just as important are the people you’re sitting with. The conversations, the backgrounds — it’s a very interesting cross-section of people.”
They also appreciate the community’s lectures, musical performances, wellness programs, interdenominational faith services, and many holiday celebrations.
And as veterans, the couple values how the community honors military service and reminds residents of the sacrifices made by those who served.
A Full Life Together
After more than seven decades together — and nearly two decades at Edgemere — John and Marie Chiles continue to prove the power of partnership, purpose, and positivity.
“We’ve had each other for 71 years,” Marie said. “And we’re still very happy with that arrangement.”
Above all, John and Marie credit attitude as a key ingredient to both a long marriage and a fulfilling life at Edgemere. Staying engaged, making new friends, and remaining open to new ideas have kept them active and connected. “If you have to grow old,” Marie said, “this is the way to do it.”
Discover the Edgemere Difference
If you’re searching for a senior living community where purpose, connection, and well-being shape everyday life, we invite you to experience Edgemere for yourself. Visit EdgemereLife.com or call 214-265-9100 to schedule a personal tour.