The recent passing of beloved local figure Larry Greenlee marks a new chapter for the local staple, Greenlee's ShopRite in Kilmichael. Established in 1970 by Larry's parents, Harvey and Sarah Greenlee, this family-owned business has been a cornerstone of the Kilmichael and Montgomery County community for over five decades. Larry took over the store's operations in 1991, and now, with his recent passing, the torch is being passed to the next generation. Despite the change in leadership, the store remains committed to its longstanding mission of serving the area with dedication and quality.
Siblings Lauren Ann Cooper and Joe Greenlee have taken over the business with no plans to close the store. Lauren Ann noted that while there were initial plans to sell when her father fell ill, they decided to keep it after his passing, recognizing the capability and dedication of their employees.
"We realized that so many of the employees had been there for years," Lauren Ann explained. "We realized what a gem they are."
Joe described the transition as bittersweet. While he and Lauren Ann mourn the loss of their beloved father, they are also embracing a new season.
“It will always be his and my grandparents’ store, in our eyes,” Joe reflected, referring to Larry Greenlee and his parents. “We’re trying to make them proud.”
Lauren Ann and Joe form a complementary team, each bringing unique strengths to the business. With 13 years of experience running her own business, L.A. Green, Lauren Ann has mastered the business side. Joe manages a field office for a natural gas company, and worked alongside their father for five years, contributing invaluable hands-on experience in grocery operations and deep knowledge of the meat market. Together, their diverse skill sets create a powerful leadership team for Greenlee's ShopRite.
Greenlee's reputation has long been built on its exceptional meat market, a tradition the store is committed to preserving. The meat department's reputation is upheld by its manager, Wayne Ford, who brings years of expertise to his role.
“We’ve had the same meat market manager for 35 years; our team and the meat market are amazing,” Lauren Ann said.
The siblings' deep roots in the area inform their approach to running the family business. Lauren Ann emphasized how special Kilmichael and Montgomery County are to her family, and they understand the store's importance to the community.
To ensure a smooth transition and maintain the store's high standards, Callie Frith and Shirley Holifield have stepped up as new store managers. Their expertise, combined with the Greenlee siblings' vision, and the dedication of experienced store employees, positions Greenlee's to thrive in this new chapter while staying true to its longstanding commitment to quality and community service.
