Former grocery store owners appreciate community support
Jim and Marilyn Cox began their tenure 23 years ago as owners of Jim's Jack and Jill Food Center. On June 1, 1980, they took over operation of the downtown grocery from Ralph Thrash.
Jim had been employed in the store since 1959. Both he and Marilyn are lifelong residents of Peabody.
"We have been blessed by the Peabody community," said Marilyn. "The store and Peabody have been our home for so long. It is with some sadness and some excitement that we leave Peabody to begin a new adventure."
Marilyn followed a calling to the ministry several years ago and has been assigned to a church in the Junction City area.
"We will miss everyone, but plan to eventually retire here, so we hope people will keep supporting businesses and events and keep our town a good place to live," she said.
The Coxes said they are grateful for the many friends they've made who started out as customers. "They really have been faithful to us over the years and it is rewarding to have a business in a small town for just that reason," she added. "And our employees are like family members. We will miss them also."
The store will be closed April 13 for inventory following a special three-day sale the Coxes note is to express their gratitude to the Peabody community for years of patronage.
The store will change ownership on April 14. Rick Turner, owner of Florence Market, has purchased the store. He plans to do some remodeling and expand the meat and produce departments.
