A 96-year-old American has earned a Guinness World Records title after becoming a grandfather for the first time at 92. Normand Tousignant was 92 years and 24 days old when his granddaughter, Madison, arrived on September 22, 2022. His family celebrated the recognition nearly four years later, during his 96th birthday party in August 2026.
The milestone makes him the world’s oldest first-time grandfather, according to Guinness World Records. His record reflects his age at Madison’s birth, rather than his age when he received the recognition.
Tousignant surpassed Australian Charles Smith, who became a first-time grandfather at 91 years and 209 days. Guinness described the difference between their ages at the milestone as six months.
A new chapter for the family
Tousignant and his wife, Mary Louise, welcomed their only daughter, Kerry, in 1990. More than three decades later, she gave birth to Madison, bringing another generation into the family.
Kerry described her father’s reaction to her pregnancy as “ecstatic, emotional, and proud,” according to Guinness.
She said growing up with an older father had taught her to treasure time with both parents. That awareness made family occasions particularly meaningful.
At her wedding, Kerry cried within the first 10 minutes as she reflected on her father’s presence. He was 86 at the time, and she considered the occasion the happiest day of her life.
“Now, it shares that honour with the day Madison was born and the day my dad learned about his record!”
Tousignant and Mary Louise later moved from Virginia to Charlotte, North Carolina, to live closer to their daughter and granddaughter.
Birthday surprise followed record application
The family considered pursuing the title after Kerry’s cousin shared a newspaper article about the previous record holder.
Kerry initially hesitated because her father values his privacy. However, the family eventually submitted his details and received confirmation shortly before his 96th birthday.
They kept the news secret until the celebration. Tousignant opened the certificate box alongside Madison, and the pair wore matching record-holder T-shirts.
For the family, the surprise added another memorable occasion to Madison’s birth and Kerry’s wedding.
Grandfather and granddaughter bond through play
Tousignant spent much of his working life as a clinical psychologist. He grew up in Gardner, Massachusetts, as one of 17 children.
He later retired while Kerry was still young and took an active role in her childhood.
Now, his relationship with Madison centres on everyday play. Despite hearing difficulties, he joins her at playgrounds, shares treats and playfully pretends to take her French fries.
Madison also enjoys visiting her grandparents and using their community’s swimming pool.
Kerry hopes her father will pass his love of reading to Madison, continuing a family interest across three generations.
