“Undeniable Twin Bond: Longevity and Celebrations”
Twins undeniably share a unique connection that has been extensively studied over the years, be they fraternal or identical. Research has even shown that this twin bond can contribute to a longer life, attributed to the comforting social support that comes from knowing someone always has your back.
The longevity aspect of this bond was exemplified by David Mosher and Winnie Mosher Merrill, twin siblings from Brunswick, Maine. In January 2019, they joyfully celebrated their 80th birthday together. However, their celebration was overshadowed by a very special guest: their 103-year-old mother, Helen Mosher.
Helen joined her children in blowing out the birthday candles, surrounded by friends and family. The twins, beaming with happiness, were thrilled to share this momentous occasion with their beloved mother.
“Helen has witnessed a great deal in her lifetime, but it’s evident that participating in her twins’ 80th birthday celebration was a cherished highlight. The joy on David and Winnie’s faces was unmistakable as loved ones gathered around to serenade them with “Happy Birthday.” This heartwarming moment was thoughtfully captured on video for friends and family, near and far, to relish.
However, as 2019 began on such a jubilant note for the Moshers, it would end with an unexpected tragedy.”

“Helen, born on September 17, 1915, in Vale, South Dakota, was the eldest among her nine siblings. Following the commemoration of her twins’ 80th birthday, Helen peacefully passed away on December 16, 2019.
Her life, which was both lengthy and rich in experiences, is eloquently chronicled in an obituary featured by Central Maine. The publication noted that this beloved matriarch served as a nurturing figure to over 80 direct descendants, each of whom…”
The obituary continued to praise Helen’s remarkable journey in Maine, remarking that her lifetime transcended the challenges of living through significant historical events like the Great Depression and multiple wartime services. Her family had generously contributed to the nation’s causes, making her no stranger to the sacrifices of her Gold Star family.
It then delved into her family life, describing how she met Charles Mosher, her soulmate. She left her family home in Windsor to start their life together in Benton Station, where they raised their family. Eventually, they settled in their final home overlooking China Lake. In this picturesque setting, they spent their later years in the loving company of their extensive family. Summers were marked by gatherings at cozy cottages on Pine Point at China Lake, where they welcomed their ever-growing brood of grandchildren.
In addition to the twins, Helen had an eldest son, Richard. At the time of her passing, all three children survived her. They fondly remembered her for her strong emphasis on education, an appreciation for family history, and the cherished summers spent at China Lake. Their memories included the clinking of heavy cookie jar lids, evening suppers of white perch, the comforting soundtrack of Red Sox games on the radio, adventures on motorboats, paths lined with painted rocks leading to the shore, the familiar sound of screen doors slamming, the fragrant scent of pine needles, and always, her melodic humming echoing somewhere in the house, a constant presence not far away.
As for the twins, they will always have memories of their special 80th birthday to remember their mother by.
The twins truly had a fortunate 80th birthday celebration, sharing it not only with each other but also with their beloved mother. Have you had a similarly memorable birthday experience? Please share your stories with us, and don’t forget to pass this message along to your friends and family as well.