North Carolina weddings always come with their fair share of special moments, but few can compare to what unfolded for bride Amanda Wirtz on her big day. What should have been an already unforgettable occasion turned into something even more extraordinary when her 100-year-old grandfather stepped in to make her dream come true.
On August 31, 2024, Amanda tied the knot in Raleigh, North Carolina, surrounded by 180 family and friends. But the real show-stopping moment came before vows were exchanged. Arm in arm with her centenarian grandfather, William Robert Gordon, Amanda was proudly escorted down the aisle in a scene that had everyone reaching for tissues.
Amanda had asked him to take on this role right after her engagement in 2023. With her grandparents helping raise her and her father not involved, it was clear who she wanted by her side. Gordon, who had celebrated his milestone birthday in October 2023, wasn’t sure if he would be able to see the day through due to his age and health. But in the end, he made good on his promise and did so with pride.
As they made their way down the aisle, Amanda and her grandfather both fought back tears. It wasn’t just tradition. It was a bond decades in the making. Later, at the reception, Gordon once again proved age is only a number, according to People.
Tears, Tradition, and a Dance to Remember
Robert Gordon joined his granddaughter for the traditional father-daughter dance, dressed in a Scottish tartan bow tie to honor his heritage. Guests looked on in awe as the two created yet another memory that would last a lifetime.
The touching moment didn’t just stay in Raleigh. Videos of the ceremony quickly went viral on TikTok, drawing hundreds of thousands of views. Strangers online couldn’t stop gushing about the emotional scene, calling it priceless and unforgettable.
“That man told death it can just wait a damn minute,” one emotional commenter writes.
“I’m happy for you, but ridiculously jealous,” comments another.
“Hysterically sobbing and filled with envy,” adds a third.
“This is the most beautiful thing I might have ever seen,” writes one more.
Now nearing 102 years old, Gordon continues to be a guiding force in Amanda’s life. Their relationship has always been more like father and daughter. Making this moment all the more meaningful. Not every bride gets the chance to share such an incredible memory, and not every grandfather has the chance to live long enough to deliver on a promise like this.
For Amanda, it was more than a wedding highlight. It was proof that love, family, and loyalty can outlast even time itself.
Kendra Quinn 
Joshua Dale 
Kenna Raye 
