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John and Susie Stilwell s experience seems to be representative.
They have been in the food service industry since 1974, when they operated a Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken restaurant in Fort Wayne, Indiana. In 1985 they were asked by the chain’s founder to move to Ocala and open a Lee’s store on Silver Springs Boulevard.
The Stilwells were recognized by the company in 2015 as the top franchisee of 140 nationwide, according to a Star-Banner article published back then.
They also operate a branch location on College Road.
“We closed the dining area for a time in March (2020) and then reopened at 20%, 50% and then 100%. We had the drive-thru open the entire time, but we took a hit,” John Stilwell said.