The Big Store clothing store owners announce retirement after 116 years of service to Tifton community, to host ‘sale of a lifetime’
TIFTON, Ga. – For nearly half a century, Marvin and Lynette Perlis stood at the helm of The Big Store with grace, vision, and unwavering dedication. Their care for customers and commitment to excellence helped shape the store into what it is today — a place where generations have found not just clothing, but connection.
The Perlis family has shared an important announcement as The Big Store prepares for its next chapter.
A Heartfelt Farewell After 116 Years: Phil & Susan Perlis Are Retiring
After 116 years of serving our community with pride, style, and personal connection, Phil and Susan Perlis have decided to retire. This decision, though deeply difficult, comes after thoughtful reflection and the recognition that, with no fifth generation to carry it forward, it is time to bring this proud family legacy to its next chapter.
Purchased in 1911 by Ike Perlis and his only son, Isadore, The Big Store has been a family-owned and operated business for four generations. From our earliest days, we have had the privilege of helping generations of customers celebrate life’s milestones from first-day-of-school outfits to wedding attire and everything
in between.We are profoundly grateful to our customers, employees, and the greater community for your unwavering support over more than a century. Your loyalty, friendship, and trust have sustained us through changing times, trends, and decades of growth. You made The Big Store more than just a department store but you made it a gathering place, a family, and a part of the fabric of this town.
While the closing of this chapter is bittersweet, we do so with immense gratitude and pride in what we’ve built together. The legacy of The Big Store will live on in the relationships we’ve formed, the memories we’ve shared, and the community spirit that has always surrounded us.
Our Retirement Sale will begin Wednesday morning with savings throughout the store. It will be a great time to use any store credits and gift certificates you may have. We hope you’ll stop by to say goodbye, share your memories, and help us celebrate 116 wonderful years of fashion, friendship, and family.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives. It has truly been an honor to serve this community
for over a century.With heartfelt gratitude,
Phil & Susan Perlis
and the Perlis Family
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