John Willoughby: Greene Publishing, Inc.
Cherry Farms Hardware in Lee has been around for quite sometime but now, it's time to say “see you later,” but not “goodbye.”
Larrie Cherry served three years in the US Army during World War II, after high school and was awarded the Purple Heart. On Nov. 3, 1946, after Larrie returned home, he married his sweetheart, Virginia, and opened up what was called then, Cherry's Feed Store. Because Larrie raised poultry, the Cherrys found it necessary to involve a contract broiler operation. At this time, Cherry Farms had close to 120 employees.
After their incorporation in 1964, Cherry's Feed Store slowly made their way to adding a hardware store which was finalized in the early-1970's. In 1990, the Cherrys sold the broiler and hatchery farms, which was then the oldest continuing poultry operation in Florida, and remained focused on what is now the Cherry Farms Hardware store. Larrie Cherry passed away seven years later. His wife, Virginia Cherry reunited with him in Heaven in 2014.
For the past 10 to 12 years, Cherry Farms has only had four employees. One employee being Joe Branch, Jr. who has worked for Cherry Farms for the past 61 years. “He's ready,” said JoAnn Whitefield about Branch. JoAnn Whitefield is the daughter of Larrie and Virginia Cherry.
“This was not an easy decision,” said Whitfield. “But one that we feel is necessary at this point in time.” This afternoon, Friday, Nov. 3, at 5:30 p.m., Whitfield and her coworkers will lock up Cherry Farms Hardware store for the final time.
“We have enjoyed being a part of the Lee community. We will always cherish the friendships and memories that we have made thru the years,” said Whitfield. Make sure to stop by before they close! Cherry Farms Hardware is located at 217 SE County Road 255, in Lee.