Everyone has a story. Ask enough questions, and you’ll be amazed what you can find out. That’s the goal of this new monthly column — to find out what makes our associates so special, how they got to where they are, where they’re going and anything in between. Our focus will be on service award recipients.
This month, Publix News talked with Department Head Red Fair, who celebrated 50 years of service in 2013.
Publix News (PN):
What brought you to Publix 50 years ago?
Red:
I grew up with some Publix families, so I always knew people who worked here. When I graduated, I applied for a job in the warehouse and got it. I’ve been here ever since. Some people are surprised to find out I never worked in the stores. But to me, distribution is where I’ve always belonged.
PN:
What made you stay?
Red:
Publix is my family. I’ve always had a tight knit group of friends and co-workers here. In fact, they gave me my name. When I started, everyone went by a nickname, and since I had very red hair, you can guess what they started calling me — Red.
I love our culture, and working with and around people. So, I never gave much thought to going anywhere else.
PN:
What do you miss most about the good ole days?
Red:
The fact we are now so large that our leaders aren’t able to visit more often. Mr. George never lost his love for people and looked forward to visiting the stores and distribution centers. During one of his last visits to our low velocity department, he was shaking hands and able to speak the following, “Hard work, hard work, I appreciate.” His nurse sensed the emotion and seemed puzzled. I told her you would’ve had to have been a part to understand.
Mr. George was the Publix culture, and I’ve always tried to do things and lead the way he did so new associates can understand more about our culture and embrace it.
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PN:
What’s the story behind the green pants? 
Red:
My son and grandkids live in Charlotte, N.C., and we were up there a while back shopping for school clothes with them. My son picked out these green pants and jokingly told me I should get them, so I did.
The night before my 50th anniversary with Publix, my wife told me I should wear those pants to celebrate the next day. When I got up in the morning, I pulled out the pants but couldn’t find any socks to go with them, so I hung them back up. The next thing I know, I’m at work and my family surprises me with a visit, some new socks and the green pants! There was also a party, and it was a great time.
PN:
What advice do you have for newer associates?
Red:
If you work hard and do the right thing, the opportunities are unlimited. If you understand My Publix, My Part, you can go as far as you want at Publix.
PN:
How many more years do you think you’ll put in?
Red:
I really don’t know. I don’t have any plans to leave. People say when it’s time, I’ll know. But, I don’t know yet!
PN:
What do you want your legacy to be?
Red:
I want to be one of those people who, because of me, Publix is a little bit better. I want to leave here helping someone and hurting no one. And I hope I’ll always have something to give that will benefit someone.
