Aug. 14, 2025 — Publix was founded in 1930, which is the same year that Ralph DeSimone was born.  

Ralph, who works as a front service clerk at a store in Cumming, Georgia, first joined Publix in 2016. Prior to joining Publix, he had a long career in the technology field and then used his captain’s license to run charter tours out of Jacksonville, Florida. During that time, he would shop with his guests at Publix before bringing them onto his boat. 

“We went to Publix because I knew I could get them good food,” said Ralph. “Being able to get quality products was important for us.” 

When he moved to the suburban Atlanta area, Ralph felt like he wanted to spend more time at Publix — but as an associate. 

“Publix has a 95-year commitment to quality food and customer service,” he said. “And I’ve found as an associate that everyone is treated fairly. I am very delighted to work here.” 

People from age 14 to into their 90s work in our stores. Ralph said he enjoys bridging the generation gap. 

“We pride ourselves in customer service, so I try to lead by example,” he explained. “It takes a commitment to doing the job right.” 

Ralph calls it a blessing to be able to enjoy the things he is able to do at the age of 95, but he also shared some of his secrets of longevity. 

“Good food along with exercise. My grandmother taught me, ‘You are what you eat,’ and I learned to tend to a garden from her,” said Ralph, who also enjoys bear claws and challah bread from our bakery. 

Treating customers like royalty is one of the tenets that George Jenkins founded our company on in 1930, and the commitment of Ralph and our over 260,000 associates is what has fueled our success for 95 years and counting.