The Rutleges, both retired educators and Florida A&M University alumni, appeared on “Couples Cafe” with “Let’s Talk About It with the Turners” and shared highlights of their 48-year marriage and the principles that have sustained it.
The couple met at FAMU, where Mrs. Rutleges was in her junior year and Mr. Rutleges was a year behind. After graduation, they briefly went separate ways, She returned to Bradenton, Florida, to work for the state, while he pursued graduate studies at Tuskegee University, partly to avoid early commitment. They reconnected years later when she, now a born-again Christian, visited Plant City, Florida, and stopped by his family home. Communication resumed, he independently accepted Christ, and the two married on Dec. 17, 1977.
They have five children, seven grandchildren, and credit their faith as the cornerstone of their relationship. The Rutleges moved to Georgia without nearby family support, forcing them to rely on each other and build community through church involvement.
Open communication and conflict resolution stood out as key practices. They emphasized addressing disagreements promptly and respectfully, often resolving issues before bedtime to avoid prolonged anger. he described learning to understand his wife’s perspective, noting differences in how they process emotions.
He explained their approach to disagreements: “We just different people. So, you know, we have to understand.”
She advised restraint during heated moments: “No matter how upset we get, if we have to mind our words, be respectful.”
The couple highlighted trust, prayer, mutual respect and shared faith as essential for younger couples. He stressed avoiding control in relationships, while she encouraged women to pray for compatible partners and show appreciation in marriage. They enjoy quality time as empty-nesters, including vacations, dates and respecting individual interests, his golf passion and her continued work by choice.
He operates a golf equipment business at the corner of Fairview and Highway 155 in Stockbridge, which he described as filling a local need.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.