A GOOD AGE: Twins for 75 years

Jeanne Ahola Conway and Jacqueline Ahola Keane, identical twins born on February 15, 1939, at Quincy City Hospital, have shared an inseparable bond for 75 years. From their synchronized arrivals to their matching lifestyles, the “Ahola twins” have embraced the fun and confusion of being “two instead of one.” Jeanne was born 21 minutes before Jacqueline, surprising their parents, Alice and Ted Ahola, who were only expecting one baby. Growing up during the Depression, the twins shared everything from a high chair to a crib, and even a drawer. Their mother handmade their clothes, and they dressed alike until high school. The twins attended St. Mary’s

School in West Quincy, sharing classes and teachers, and pushing each other academically. At Quincy High School, they were cheerleaders and later graduated from Quincy City Hospital School of Nursing together, both topping their class in 1959. In 1961, they had a double wedding at St. Mary’s Church, capturing media attention with their matching gowns and pillbox hats. This event marked the last time they dressed alike. Despite pursuing different careers—Jeanne as a pediatric nurse and later a public health nurse, and Jacqueline in maternity nursing, ending as health director at the May Institute for Autism—the twins maintained their close

connection. Jeanne has two children, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, while Jacqueline has three children and eight grandchildren. Their families are close-knit, reflecting the strong bond between the twins. Jeanne and Jacqueline’s bond has grown stronger with age. They enjoy the unique connection of “twin talk,” often finishing each other’s sentences. They share similar tastes, often buying the same greeting cards independently, and even their grandchildren refer to them as “Grammy 1” and “Grammy 2.” “We have enjoyed being twins more as we age,” Jeanne said. “The bond is something we never thought of growing up, but now it’s just very special.” Jacqueline echoed, “We are each other’s best friend.”
Their parents encouraged them to be individuals, but the twins naturally gravitated towards shared experiences. Their tight-knit

relationship has been a source of support through life’s challenges, including the end of both their marriages. Jeanne and Jacqueline recently celebrated their 75th birthday with a family party, reflecting on their unique journey as twins. They continue to enjoy life, embracing their special bond with humor and love.
“We’re having more fun,” Jacqueline said. “We’re making up for it.”
Despite some childhood arguments, their bond remains unshaken. “We’ve learned how far we can go with each other,” Jeanne said. “We had a wonderful childhood – not a lot of money, but a lot of love.” The Ahola twins’ story is a testament to the enduring power of sibling bonds, showing that the connection between identical twins can bring joy and support throughout a lifetime.