The iconic neighbor-hood store, Lake Lindsey Mall and Deli, is now under new ownership. Billy and Bridie Jones are the new owners. Billy is an electrician by trade who grew up down the road and always wanted to run the store. His wife Bridie is an 18-year veteran of the school system who taught first grade. The couple has 7 children, many of whom are helping out at the shop.
Bridie and Billy say their goals are to make their customers feel welcome, get to know everybody and give back to the community. Being from the area, they already know many of their customers by name. While I was there, Bridie greeted several friends who came by to pick up various items.
Bridie says they are planning to expand their menu and are now open 7 days a week. They do have set hours, but are often open after closing time. Bridie explained, “As long as you can see our cars outside, we’re open.”
They hope to build a wrap-around porch in the front and picnic tables in the back, as well as a screened-in enclosure where they can host barbeques and provide music.
Bridie says their 3-year goal is to once again offer gas. They would most likely be installing above ground tanks that would offer diesel, unleaded and ethanol-free.
The small store has a long history serving the community. Old photos of the original building hang on the wall. The property itself is owned by Melodie Tincher whose family (the Higginbothams) has owned the property since the 1920’s, with the store opening in the 50’s.
While many neighborhood stores stand barricaded and empty, it is nice to see the Jones family carrying on the tradition for this close-knit community.
If you are planning to go they are located 14351 Snow Memorial Highway, which is the corner of Lake Lindsey Road (476) and Snow Memorial Highway.
(Updated with the address)