Soulful Journey:
Jeff & Chanda’s Everlasting Love

CHANDRA FLOYD-BRYANT

Jeff and I met on the campus of Fort Valley State University, sometime around 1990. Before anything else, we were friends—genuine, effortless, and deeply connected friends. We hung out together, had meaningful conversations, and moved within the same circles. Over time, something unspoken but undeniable grew between us, a natural rhythm pulling us closer.

At the time, I was in another relationship and found myself expecting my first child. Meanwhile, Jeff was preparing to graduate. One day, he came to me and, with all the certainty in the world, said, “I’m in love with you, and I want us to be together.” I was eight months pregnant and completely unprepared for that revelation. It was a lot to process—his love, my impending motherhood, and the weight of a future I hadn’t yet envisioned.

Despite everything, Jeff remained steadfast. He relocated to Atlanta, but every day, he made the trip to see me. He visited my mother’s house, rubbed my feet, brought me food, and was simply present. I didn’t fully understand the depth of what he was offering at the time, but looking back, I know now—I was experiencing the kind of love that is patient, unwavering, and unconditional.

When I returned to school in the spring of 1993, and Jeff prepared to graduate, I finally acknowledged what my heart had known all along. I told him I wanted us to be together, but that it wouldn’t just be me—it would be me and my son, a package deal. Without hesitation, he embraced us both. From that moment on, he has been my constant.

We dated for five years before marrying on October 24, 1998. Our journey has been one of love, laughter, trials, and triumphs. It hasn’t been perfect, but it has been ours—a dance of ebb and flow, growth and grace. For 26 years of marriage and over three decades together, Jeff has been my soulmate, my partner, my best friend, and the yin to my yang.

Today, we celebrate the beautiful life we’ve built—three incredible children, six amazing grandchildren, and a love story that continues to evolve. Our youngest son now carries on our Fort Valley State University legacy, a testament to the roots we planted all those years ago. Through it all, I am endlessly grateful that our paths crossed, that we chose each other, and that I have the privilege of being Mrs. Bryant.