For the first time in 15 years,

Tyrone is without a local grocery store.

Earlier this month, owner Jack

Johnson closed the doors at Jack's Market. The grocer has moved on to

other opportunities, said Town Manager Barry Amos.

But residents who want to shop

locally will have two other chances in the near future. Amos said a meat

market is planning to open in Jack's location and Publix still has plans

to build on Ga. Highway 74.

Still, the last vestige of

a neighborhood grocery store caused nearly 100 people to pack Town Hall

last Thursday and honor Johnson and his contributions to the community.

Mayor Sheryl Lee read a proclamation

honoring Johnson and declaring Jan. 17 as Jack Johnson Day in Tyrone.

Lee broke down halfway through the reading of the proclamation. She said

if it wasn't for Johnson and other local business leaders, Tyrone's recreation

program would not be the success it is today.

Other residents gave testimony

to Johnson's giving spirit and said he was always there to help somebody

in need.

When one Delta employee lost

his job, he told Johnson he didn't know how he was going to feed his kids.

Johnson said as long he was at the market, the employee's kids would always

be fed.

Councilman Ronnie Cannon spoke

of Johnson's dedication to the community and recited verses from Alan

Jackson's song about the small businesses in Newnan closing down because

of increased competition from the big chains.

Johnson was noticeably moved

in the town.

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