Charline Brewer and her brother Richard Goins purchased Judy’s Grocery in March.

By Charlotte Underwood

LAFOLLETTE, TN (WLAF) – Judy’s Grocery and Deli is WLAF’s business of the week. The long-time local bait, tackle and deli staple was purchased by Richard Goins and his sister Charline Brewer in March when it went up for auction.

The siblings were born and raised in Campbell County. Buying the business was a “big change of scenery” for the pair. Brewer was basically retired after working 38 years at the food plant when her brother called her up and asked if she wanted to go into business with him and purchase Judy’s. Brewer said she said yes without even really thinking about it.

Judy’s has expanded its dining area.

Goins had been the “bread man” for Campbell County for the last 30 years running the local bread route, but having a new grand baby at home had him thinking about something with less driving that would allow him more time with his family. Purchasing Judy’s just seemed like the perfect fit. Now his new nickname is the “biscuit man” as he bakes the breakfast biscuits for the business each morning.

Brewer and Goins said they plan to keep Judy’s as the community staple it has always been, with the same menu items and employees and name. 

This week’s WLAF business feature is Judy’s Grocery.

The main change coming is an expanded kitchen to have a larger cooking space. The dining area has already been decorated and expanded with additional booths and eating areas. 

“The customers have given positive feedback on the changes we have made,” Brewer said.

According to the locals that shop there, Judy’s has the “best bait in town” as well as some of the best burgers, daily specials and their famous hoagies with all the fixings. All the meat comes from Hollingsworth’s Meat Market, as well as local fresh produce. Monday through Friday the kitchen serves up a different special such as chicken and dumplings, roast beef, spaghetti and more. 

Brewer said the community has been quite welcoming of the ownership change and that Judy’s has wonderful customers.

Live bait, as well as tackle and other fishing supplies can be purchased at Judy’s.

“It’s been a lot of fun so far and doesn’t even really feel like working,” Brewer said.   Food, fishing supplies, bait, tackle, groceries and friendly hometown service can all be found at Judy’s Grocery. 

The business is open 5 am to 8 pm Monday through Saturday and closed on Sundays. The deli closes at 6:30 pm. each evening. For call in orders, call 423-562-3285. Judy’s is located at 748 Old Middlesboro Highway at Fincastle.

WLAF’s Charlotte Underwood features a local business each Friday. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 06/18/2021-6AM)