Legacy, faith, and partnership were at the heart of this segment of Couples Cafe on "Let’s Talk About It with the Turners." We were joined by James and Sheila Garner, who shared the inspiring story of their 54-year marriage.
The Garners’ were college sweethearts who met at Jackson State University, the couple reflected on a relationship that began with a handwritten note passed in a French class and grew into more than five decades of marriage, family and service.
Mr. Garner, a Greenwood, Mississippi native, built a distinguished career in corporate America after earning degrees from Jackson State University and serving honorably in the U.S. Army. He later became the first Black marketing representative in the sales department at Mississippi Power & Light. Mrs. Garner, also from Mississippi, broke racial barriers in education as the first Black graduate of her high school before earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Jackson State. She went on to a career with AT&T and remains deeply involved in community leadership and service.
Now retired and living in Stockbridge, the Garners are parents to three adult children and grandparents to four. During the conversation, they emphasized that longevity in marriage does not come without challenges, particularly in the early years.
Mr. James explained that finances were one of the first major hurdles they had to navigate as a young married couple learning how to manage money together. Over time, their challenges shifted from finances to managing time and expectations during retirement, especially as community and family demands increased.
“One of the first things that really has been at the top of the list in our life is our faith, that we always put God first,” he said. “Then there’s patience, because there will be challenges and obstacles.”
Mrs. Sheila spoke candidly about personal growth within marriage, noting that learning to shift from independence to partnership required adjustment. She emphasized the importance of communication and working through conflict rather than avoiding it.
“I always try to remember the good times when things were bad,” Mrs. Sheila said. “We always somehow worked it out.”
Throughout the episode, the Garners highlighted the importance of shared interests and intentional time together. From attending sporting events and supporting their alma mater to enjoying gospel music and jazz, they described how mutual enjoyment has helped keep their connection strong.
The couple also stressed that conflict is inevitable but manageable when approached with honesty, respect and a commitment to resolution. Rather than striving for perfection, they encouraged younger couples to focus on balance, openness and remembering why they chose each other.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.