Lewis LaGrand always greets his customers with a smile.
The Wal-Mart employee has proven to be a jack of all trades throughout his career, and the corporate office took notice during a recent ceremony honoring his 40th anniversary in the store. The accomplishment will appear in a future edition of the company’s newsletter.
LaGrand is set to reach the milestone during the month of October, and hasn’t missed a beat since starting in the profession in the 1970s.
“I started with Big K in 1976,” LaGrand told the Elizabethton Star Monday. “Wal-Mart bought us out in 1981. I’ve been in three stores since I started and I do just about a little of everything.”
A native of Carter County, the work ethic was noted early on by owner Sam Walton. LaGrand was also a welcomed guest inside the Walton household in Bentonville, Ark.
“I went to Bentonville in 1984 and had the chance to go to Mr. Walton’s house,” he said. “It was a wonderful experience.” LaGrand also had another trip to Bentonville to celebrate his 35th anniversary with the store and added that he has a picture of himself and Walton at his house in Elizabethton.
While having the chance to maneuver across the Southeast, LaGrand has enjoyed his experience in the local store.
“There have been so many positive stories,” he said. “I have three friends that work here. One has been here 34 years, one has worked 30 years and another has worked here 29 years. They’re just like family to me.
“I have the best store manager (Starla Garland),” he continued. “I also have the best assistants that anyone could ever ask for.”
Before heading back to man a register, LaGrand did provide an update on his future.
“I enjoy it, but I do plan on retiring soon,” he said with a laugh.