Carrying on a 'Sole'ful Legacy: W & J Shoe repair seeks a successor

For over 40 years, Jimmy Raymond has been the go-to expert for shoe repair and leathercraft in Statesboro. As one of Georgia Southern’s first Black graduates with a degree in Industrial Education, he initially pursued a career in teaching, instructing high school industrial arts in Atlanta and Glennville.

However, his passion for craftsmanship led him down a different path—one that began in a small shoe repair shop in the Statesboro Mall.

Now, as he prepares for retirement, Jimmy is looking for the right person to train and take over his well-established business, W & J Shoe Repair. He’s offering a rare opportunity for someone willing to learn the trade, work with their hands, and keep an essential service alive in the community.

A Community Staple

Over the years, W & J Shoe Repair has remained the only shop of its kind within a five-county radius, attracting a loyal customer base. Whether it’s repairing a favorite pair of boots or restoring a cherished handbag, Jimmy has kept the community moving—literally.

His wife, Sheila Raymond, shared how Jimmy has kept his prices affordable for decades, often charging well below market rates.

“I remember taking a trip to Florida to check out other shops, and he was charging $55 to resole cowboy boots when other places were already at $80," she shared. "He only just raised his prices recently.”

With a steady demand for shoe repair and no other local providers, closing the business would leave many customers without a trusted resource. That’s why Jimmy and Sheila are hoping to find someone serious about learning the trade and keeping the business alive.

A Hands-On Opportunity

Due to arthritis and back problems, Jimmy is finding the physical demands of shoe repair more difficult these days, though he plans to continue working on leathercraft. While he still moves around the shop, he needs someone willing to step in, train, and eventually take over the business.

“This can be a great way to be your own boss,” Sheila said. “If you like working with your hands and are motivated, this is an opportunity worth considering. When I had to step in, I had to be motivated too—I stepped out on faith, and I would tell anyone else to do the same.”

The ideal candidate doesn’t need prior experience but must be willing to work hands-on first to learn the craft. If someone already has experience, that’s even better. Jimmy is committed to working alongside the right person until they are comfortable running the business on their own.

Interested? Here’s How to Apply

Jimmy and Sheila welcome anyone in the community who is serious about learning and working hard. Those interested can visit W & J Shoe Repair, located at 43 W. Main St. in Downtown Statesboro, during business hours:

• Tuesday - Friday: 9 AM - 2 PM
• Saturday: 9 AM - 12 PM
• Closed on Mondays

You can also call the shop at (912) 536-6660 to learn more.

This is more than just a business opportunity—it’s a chance to carry on a legacy of craftsmanship and service. If you’re ready to take that step, Jimmy Raymond is ready to teach you everything you need to know.