The doors of Corner Drug will close for the final time on August 30, marking the end of an era for a beloved local pharmacy that has served the community for decades. The store, known for its dedication to personalized care and wellness, will merge with Pharmacy Plus, but not without reflecting on the profound impact of its owner, Margaret Miller.
Miller's journey with Corner Drug began in 2004when she started her career as a pharmacist after interning during her pharmacy school summers.
Her commitment to health and wellness led her to become a part owner in 2008 and later achieve full ownership in 2015. Under her leadership, Corner Drug transformed into a community hub, hosting various events and fostering relationships with loyal customers.
Miller said it was more than a passion.
“It has been a calling and a passion for me,” Miller shared. “I have had the privilege of helping others lead healthier lives and providing personalized care to everyone who walked through our doors.”
In a heartfelt message to the community, Miller expressed her gratitude to the loyal customers who have supported Corner Drug throughout the years.
“Your support has been the driving force behind our success, and I am truly grateful for the relationships we have built together,” she stated.
While Miller loves being a pharmacist and serving the community, she has decided to prioritize her role as a mother to her four children: Benjamin, Maddie, Chloe and Macy.
“Juggling a demanding career with motherhood can be challenging, and I have made the difficult decision to step away from a business owner role to focus more on my family,” she explained.
Despite stepping back from ownership, Miller said she will continue to serve the community as a pharmacist at Pharmacy Plus a few days a week.
“This transition allows me to strike a balance between my professional responsibilities and personal commitments, ensuring that I can continue to support our community while being present for my family,” she said.
The history of Corner Drug is as rich as the memories associated with it. Originally opened in 1906 by D.B. Taliaferro, the pharmacy has undergone numerous transformations and has had several owners. It became a local gathering spot, serving refreshments and even beer during Prohibition. The store gained notoriety for its role in the infamous 1932 shootout, leaving historical marks that tell stories of the past.
Miller fondly recalled her childhood visits to Corner Drug with her father, where she would sit in a booth with him and enjoy coffee alongside longtime patrons.
“The memories I have of working alongside my Uncle Calvin and the knowledge he imparted to me as a pharmacist will always hold a special place in my heart,” she reminisced.
As the community prepares to say goodbye to Corner Drug, Miller wanted to express her heartfelt thanks.
“It has been an honor and a privilege to own Corner Drug, and I am immensely grateful for the memories and friendships that I have made along the way,” she concluded.
All prescription files will be transferred to Pharmacy Plus by September 3, ensuring that the community’s health needs continue to be met. Though Corner Drug may no longer operate, the legacy of care and dedication established by Miller and her team will endure in the hearts of the community they served for so long.
For those wishing to visit Corner Drug one last time, the pharmacy will operate until August 30. There will be a come and go event that is open to all in the community from 4 p.m. till 6 p.m. with food and refreshments, providing an opportunity to say farewell to a local treasure.