Jeff and Debbie Allen of New Friarsgate will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on June 19.
The couple first met in 1975 while attending a wedding in Canada. Jeff was serving as the best man for his lifelong friend, while Debbie was managing the wedding reception. The two quickly formed a connection, began dating, and one year later were married in the very same reception hall where they first met.
Over the past five decades, Jeff and Debbie have built a family that includes two daughters and two grandchildren.
Debbie retired after a career as a paramedic with Richland County and continues to serve as skating director at Flyte Skating Rink in Ballentine. Jeff retired from the Irmo Fire District after 22 years of service and also spent time working in law enforcement. He currently serves on the Irmo Planning Commission.
Asked the secret to a successful 50-year marriage, Jeff offered a simple answer: “Communication is the key. Definitely communication.”
