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At 100 years, he asks why retire? // PHOTO GALLERY

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PANAMA CITY — At 100 years old, Ellis Fowhand has never thought about retirement.

“Why do that? I’m doing something I love,” Fowhand said Monday surrounded by friends and family at Captain’s Table in Panama City in celebration of his centennial. 

He still works six days a week at Fowhand Furniture, a business he opened in 1952. He still drives himself to and from work, and often jokes about working a “half day,”— meaning from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

PHOTO GALLERY

Born and raised in Panama City, Fowhand is sharp, quick-witted and, according to his friends, still finds time to goof off on occasion.

Fowhand’s great-grandson Wesley Johnson, the owner of Florida Neuro Pain & Spine Center, described his great-grandfather as one of the most influential people in his life, especially when it comes to teaching work ethic.

“Being a doctor and a business owner, you have to have a great work ethic,” Johnson said. “To this day I can’t take off on a Saturday because I know he’s always working.”

Wesley’s father James Johnson, who works alongside Fowhand at the furniture store, echoed his son’s comments.

 “I’ve never met anyone with a better work ethic,” he said, noting a 6:30 a.m. start is late for Fowhand. “He’s the epitome of a true Southern gentleman. He raised the bar pretty high for the whole family.”

Former Bay County Clerk of Court Harold Bazzel praised his long-time friend for his optimism and involvement in the community.

“He’s one of the most well-liked and respected members of our community and always has been,” Bazzel said. “He’s one of my heroes, I know that. He’s one of a kind.”

Fowhand, Bazzel and several other distinguished community members, including Mayor Greg Brudnicki and County Commission Chairman Guy Tunnell, meet for lunch at Captain’s Table every Monday, and this Monday was no different.

Carole Worthington, who described herself as Fowhand’s “adopted granddaughter,” traveled from Knoxville, Tenn. to attend the celebration.

 “He is the most marvelous gentleman,” Worthington said. “He inspired me to be all I can be.”

 Check back later tonight for a photo gallery


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