JUSTUS -- After 35 years in business, a unique store in Lackawanna County is closing.
K-9 Corral Jeans and Western Wear has been selling cowboy hats, western boots, blue jeans and more to generations of people, but the owner of the place in Justus tells us it's time to retire.
There's a big change coming for Phyllis White after 35 years of being behind the counter at K-9 Corral Jeans and Western Wear in Justus. She is retiring, and with the owner deciding to step down, the cowboy hats are coming off the walls, the boots off the shelves. This store is ending its long run.
"It was a very tough decision. It took me months to make the decision to retire, but it was time. You just knew in your heart it was time to retire," said owner Phyllis White.
White has helped suit up generations of customers in all the western wear. She also sold jeans to kids 30 years ago. Now she's outfitting their children in school uniforms and more.
"It was a bittersweet decision because there were a lot of lovely people who came through the doors -- and still do -- and reminisce and shop, and that's the hardest part."
This is a store that sells unique items. From the boots to the hats, they have it all, but that's not what has kept them in business all these years.
"I've had moments when I've really grieved over her leaving."
Diane Lancaster has been a customer for decades. Now she's at the store just offering some help to White as she runs the retirement sale.
Lancaster remembers buying colorful corduroy jeans here in the 70s. She's always counted on the quality here.
"The service is excellent. If she can't find it or if she doesn't have it, she goes looking for it and then she gets it in for you," Lancaster said.
And Phyllis White says she's always enjoyed that, but she plans to enjoy some relaxation, too.
"Right now, I'm working to 65 hours a week. I am looking forward to retirement. First of all, I would like to do some housecleaning."
White has some travel plans, too, after the store closes.
There's no closing date set yet, but she expects the retirement sale at K-9 Corral Jeans and Western Wear to run through Christmas.