ROCKFORD, Mich. — Jody’s Restaurant is shuttering its doors after more than 40 years.
The Rockford business announced its upcoming closure on social media Wednesday. They say the restaurant was “sold, and is closing.”
Owner Don Mendham says the decision he made was bittersweet as he enters retirement.
The restaurant become a city staple known for its chicken fingers, cinnamon rolls and strawberry shortcake.
Mendham spoke with FOX 17 Thursday, recalling when he first established the business.
"I said, 'Tell... tell us about Rockford.' Says, 'Wonderful town, great city management, great schools, the neighbors are terrific,'" Mendham says. "You know, 'The only thing this place doesn't have is a fast-food restaurant,' and so that was it. But that's still true. It's been a real nice place. It's a good location to do business, but it's a really ... a better town."
Mendham tells us Jody's Restaurant employed around 1,000 workers since its inception. Some current employees have worked there for more than 20 years.
“While all of this is happening so fast for Don and starting his retirement, it is still so bittersweet,” the business wrote on Facebook. “Don has been serving our community for almost 44 years. A huge shout out to him and his family for being so committed to the business and the community.”
We’re told the restaurant’s last day is on Dec. 22 but the date is not final. A goodbye party will be held afterward for past and current employees, as well as regular patrons.
It's not yet known what will take the restaurant's place, but Mendham says he wants to spend his retirement helping others.
The business extends its gratitude to patrons and community members who supported them over the years.
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