Aug. 26, 2025 — On Sept. 6, Publix will celebrate its 95th anniversary. To commemorate the special day, we’re highlighting retired associates who helped make Publix the place where shopping is a pleasure.  

Meet Sue

Sue Donohue started her Publix career in 1973. For 40 years, she provided premier service in various roles, including cashier, store manager and district manager.  

“I’m so grateful to have had such incredible mentors and a company that believed in me and supported my growth as an associate,” said Sue. “I felt a deep responsibility to invest in other associates the same way others had invested in me.” 

She has fond memories of seeing Publix founder George Jenkins during her time as a customer service associate. “Store visits were so important to him, and he made every associate feel valued when he spoke to them,” Sue said.   

Reflecting on Publix’s 95th anniversary, she’s filled with pride and gratitude.  

“I feel so fortunate to have worked for such a wonderful company,” said Sue. “At the end of the day, it has always been and will always be about the great people who make Publix a success and carry on George Jenkins’ legacy.” 

Meet Jim

Jim Lobinsky started his Publix journey in 1956 as a front service clerk in Winter Park, Florida. For 49 years, he served in various roles in retail and support, including senior vice president of corporate purchasing, manufacturing and distribution.  

Jim helped create Publix’s corporate purchasing department, an accomplishment he is most proud of.  

Jenkins also holds a special place in Jim’s life. Our founder’s lessons and the culture he created inspired Jim to volunteer in his community and give back to others.  

When Jim started at Publix, there were only around 30 stores. Today, we have over 1,400 stores and counting.  

“Publix people have real pride in their job,” said Jim. “It’s an honor to be a small contributor to the growth and success of Publix.”

Meet Cheryl

Cheryl Bullock began her Publix career in October 1972, working in grocery and customer service. For 50 years, she served customers as a cashier, grocery clerk and a pharmacy technician.  

“I loved working for Publix,” said Cheryl. “I met so many extraordinary people who turned into close friends who feel like family.” 

Cheryl is proud of her time as a pharmacy technician. She grew her knowledge of pharmacy operations by challenging herself to learn something new daily.  

She is grateful to have played a role in Publix’s 95 years of success.  

“Publix’s 95th anniversary is a testament that we’re still committed to the ideas George Jenkins founded the company upon,” said Cheryl. “It’s a dedication to our commitment to our associates and communities.” 

Meet Althea

Althea Driskell started working for Publix in 1973 in the produce warehouse. She worked for Publix for 42 years as a line leader and administrative assistant.  

During her time in distribution, she was part of an initial team that implemented new systems and trained associates to use them.  

“It’s a time I’m really proud of,” said Althea. “Collaborating with and being able to inform other associates was one of my favorite parts of my job.” 

Althea also fondly remembers meeting George Jenkins at multiple dinners to celebrate her time of service with Publix. 

“I feel proud knowing I’ve had a small part in Publix’s continued success during its 95-year history,” she said.

Meet James

James Driskell began his Publix career in 1980, working in the dairy box meat warehouse. For 28 years, he provided premier service in our warehouses as a selector, supervisor, superintendent and distribution manager.  

Besides enjoying the work itself, James liked building genuine relationships with other associates. James felt it directly reflected the Publix culture created by Jenkins.  

One of James’ proudest Publix accomplishments was winning the George W. Jenkins Award. This honor is awarded annually to associates who exemplify leadership, perpetuate the Publix culture and demonstrate commitment to the ideals of our founder.  

James’ favorite memories of Jenkins? “Seeing him on a normal day simply walking around in his Publix logo jacket,” James said.   

Reflecting on Publix’s 95th anniversary, James is proud to know he’s contributed. 

“My time working at Publix was so rewarding and special,” said James. “It’s a remarkable accomplishment for a business to be around for 95 years, and that speaks to George Jenkins' vision for Publix.”