Ron Rushing Shares Heartwarming Memories from Growing Up in Metter’s Sears Store
Ron Rushing shared his childhood memories with the Candler County Historical Society on November 4. He grew up in his parents’ Sears store in Metter. His parents, James and June Rushing, managed the store for many years. Ron began working there as a high school student, earning $30 weekly, which he used for movies, candy, and gas.
During his talk, Ron recalled the nearby shops he visited, including Joe Pittman’s drug store and Durden’s Department Store. He felt safe riding his bike around Metter. Ron talked about special events at Sears, like Christmas, when a photographer took pictures of children with Santa.
James and June Rushing treated customers like family. They knew their clients and their needs well. When they retired in 1994, their absence was felt in the community. Later, the store became Martha’s, run by Martha Cannady.
What were some unique traditions celebrated at Metter’s Sears store during the holidays?
Interview with Ron Rushing: A Journey Through Time at Metter’s Historic Sears Store
NewsDirectory3.com: On November 4, Ron Rushing shared memories from his childhood at the Candler County Historical Society, bringing to life the nostalgia of growing up in a family-run business. We sat down with him to delve deeper into those experiences.
NewsDirectory3.com: Ron, can you take us back to your early days at your parents’ Sears store? What are some of your fondest memories?
Ron Rushing: Growing up in the Sears store was like being in a vibrant community hub. I remember working there as a high school student, earning $30 a week. That money was my ticket to the movies, candy, and gas for my bike. It was a simple yet fulfilling life.
NewsDirectory3.com: You mentioned other local shops you frequented. What was the atmosphere like in Metter back then?
Ron Rushing: Oh, it was a tight-knit community! Shops like Joe Pittman’s drug store and Durden’s Department Store were not just businesses; they were places where everyone knew each other. I felt safe riding my bike everywhere. It was a different time—a simpler time.
NewsDirectory3.com: You also talked about special events at the Sears store, especially during Christmas. Can you share more about that?
Ron Rushing: Absolutely! One of the highlights of the year was when a photographer would come to take pictures of kids with Santa. It brought the community together and created lasting memories for families. We always decorated the store festively, and it felt magical.
NewsDirectory3.com: Your parents, James and June Rushing, had a unique approach to customer service. How did they build relationships with the community?
Ron Rushing: My parents treated every customer like family. They knew their clients by name and understood their needs. It wasn’t merely about selling; it was about fostering connections. When they retired in 1994, the void was palpable in Metter; the community felt it.
NewsDirectory3.com: After your parents retired, the store transitioned to Martha’s. How do you feel about that change?
Ron Rushing: Martha’s has done a great job carrying on the legacy of community spirit. It’s important to keep that local essence alive and adapt to the changing times while still holding on to those cherished memories.
NewsDirectory3.com: You and your mother presented a special Sears catalog to the History Museum. What did that mean for you?
Ron Rushing: It was a great honor to share a piece of our history with the community. The catalog represents so many memories and is a testament to the time when Sears was an integral part of our lives. I hope it inspires the younger generation to appreciate and learn from our past.
NewsDirectory3.com: As we look forward to the Candler County Historian of the Year 2024 announcement on December 2, what would you want the community to take away from your story?
Ron Rushing: I want people to remember the value of community connections. Every individual has a story that forms the fabric of our history. I encourage everyone to attend the dinner and celebrate our local history together. Bring a dish to share and let’s continue to build our community with love and memories.
We thank Ron Rushing for sharing his wonderful experiences with us. Join us on December 2 at 6 p.m. for the Candler County Historian of the Year announcement and to honor the rich history of our community.
Ron and his mother presented a special Sears catalog to the History Museum. After the presentation, Patricia Beasley gave Ron a mug as a welcome gift to the Candler County Historical Society.
Remember, December 2 is the day for the Candler County Historian of the Year 2024 announcement. The community is invited to attend the dinner at 6 p.m. and bring a dish to share.