Headlines

Prominent Jeweler Guy ‘Smiley’ Merry Dies at Age 100

Published

8 years ago

February 26, 2016

INSTORE Staff

He was involved in the industry for the past 70 years.

Guy “Smiley” Merry, a well-known jeweler in Eustis, FL, died at age 100, the Orlando Sentinel writes. The article says he first opened his store, Merry Jewelers, in 1946 after serving two years as part of the U.S. Navy Seabees. He sold the shop in 1965 to retire, but after his wife died, he came out of retirement and took back over the store with his daughter. “He’s a larger than life figure,” Eustis Mayor Michael Holland, whom Merry mentored, told the newspaper. “Smiley was somebody, who would share business experiences with me. He would tell young people how important it was to get your education.”

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”