Well-wishers honor retiring Wilson with parade
Many residents of Nahunta showed up to drive their vehicles past Brantley Auto Parts Saturday in salute of the retirement of Vance Wilson.
Wilson is retiring from the parts industry after beginning his career back in June of 1978 when Brantley Auto Parts/Pronto Auto Parts opened.
It is bittersweet.
He established such a rapport with his customers. They are more like family. That’s what he says he will miss the most.
“I know I’m going to miss my customers,” Wilson said. “I thank them for being loyal over the years.”
Wilson began his career in the parts business right out of high school. He had been working on a farm for year when his brother-inlaw, Bozo Willis, had the opportunity to buy a parts store.
Together the two embarked on the journey. Their partnership lasted five years until Willis sold his part to Robert Page. Wilson and Page partnered until 1991 when Wilson bought out Page.
Sheriff Len Davis gets vehicles lined up Saturday morning in the parking lot at Nahunta Elementary School. By WAYNE MORGAN
For Wilson, he believes the parts industry has changed significantly since 1978. For example, he said one auto part would fit a 10-15 year model. Now, one part can fit only one to two-year models.
Wilson said this is largely due to the inventory involved.
He states the store may not have been equipped today to have the parts necessary. Years ago, he could work off a lot less inventory and the process was much easier in the beginning.
These new changes made the business tougher, but his business still remained successful.
Wilson’s family came out to enjoy the parade dedicated to him. His niece, Jennifer Riggins, shared her uncle’s bittersweetness at retirement. She said Wilson was much more than just a business owner.
“He’s going to leave a lasting impression on this community and this county,” Riggins said. “He’s been a supporter and he’s been here for the kids with fundraisers and different benefits. He has given his heart to this community.”
Long-time friend Wayne Morgan expressed a very unique aspect to Wilson that is rare to find.
“He’s been the only parts-based business I’ve ever known in Brantley County,” said Morgan.
Morgan said he has known Wilson since before high school. When Morgan drove a race car, he said Wilson would help him with the project in terms of getting the parts when he needed them.
Wilson’s plans for retirement are simple. He will, though, still connect with the folks of Brantley County.
“I plan to sit back and work on the farm, but I will still come to see my customers,” Wilson said.
Wilson added his wife, Mary Jo Wilson, will continue to stay with the business for a period of time under the new management.
Brantley Auto Parts is being sold to Bumper to Bumper, which is whom Wilson bought the business from.
Photos By JUSTIN HALL
