Cavanaugh’s Jewelers closing after more than 60 years in business
LUFKIN, TX (KTRE) - Some bittersweet news came from a jewelry store in Lufkin on Thursday.
Cavanaugh’s Jewelers is closing its doors after being a staple in the community since 1952.
“It’s very hard,” said Payton Trego, a sales associate.
Trego said she’s been working at Cavanaugh’s since she was 17, and having to say good-bye to her customers is the most difficult part.
“I’ve been there since they started picking out their engagement rings. I’ve watched my customers have babies and celebrated anniversaries with them and helped them to be their secret gift, picking out their gifts for them. I’m going to miss it,” Trego said.
Store owner Duncan Cavanaugh said he didn’t make this decision to retire lightly.
"I've been contemplating it for two years," Cavanaugh said.
Since he was 10 years-old, Cavanaugh said he's been serving and working at the store, not only in the former downtown location but also more recently the location on Tulane Street.
“I’m going to go and get well, but I cant get well and work and satisfy my customers as they’ve been used to for years and years,” Cavanaugh said.
The jewelry store owner said he's been in the jewelry business for 51 years and customers can recall their first purchases.
“I graduated high school in 1985, Lufkin high school. My class ring came from Cavanaugh’s when they were in downtown Lufkin,” said Edd Sidney, a customer.
Cavanaugh said he shares one piece of wisdom - take care of the customers.
"Every basic successful business is service oriented," Cavanaugh said.
Cavanaugh said it may take him four weeks to close the doors.
The store is selling jewelry at discounted rates at 1905 Tulane Drive, Suite 102-I. For more details, please call (936) 634-8261.
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