Years ago, it was quite common to see people on the job for 20 years or more.  There was a certain stability of work and loyalty on both sides of the job (employee and employer).  These days are quite different.  You do not as frequently or commonly see that kind of work commitment or loyalty. However, there are still some dedicated individuals who shine because of their work ethic and loyalty to the company and its customer base. Meet Doug Fry just once and you will see for yourself what it takes to remain on the job for 20 years with a certain spirit and work style that others appreciate and should emulate.  

Currently, Doug, a 38 year old young man with Down Syndrome, works at the Southside Publix located in the Tinseltown area of Jacksonville, Florida.  He works as a Customer Service Associate. He helps bag groceries, takes groceries to the cars of customers, cleans up the front end when needed, and also does some stocking.  Doug makes it a point to greet customers and to help out any way he can.   As noted on the Publix Website, Publix was founded by George W. Jenkins. "His dream was to open a store that was different - a store that operated on a set of values that everyone could feel when they walked through the door."   It is clear that Doug Fry, through his kindness and strong work ethic, helps promote these values.  Doug is the kind of person who is admired by both co-workers and customers alike.

Over the years, Doug has been offered a number of jobs by other companies, restaurants, and businesses.  While Doug was flattered to be in such high demand, he understands the importance of keeping one's word and committing to a job.  

Beyond his work, Doug enjoys his free time with family and friends.   He does not fear new challenges but he welcomes them.  Doug's wonderful outlook on life, honesty, and sense of adventure prompted his father - Gary Fry - to write a book about Doug.   The book - titled "Doug's Story" - covers many of Doug's adventures and life experiences.   As noted by Gary, "Doug's zest for life results, in part, from his inquisitive nature and his confidence."  For example, under prior baseball management, Doug was given a Jacksonville Suns uniform to help present lineups to the umpire.  When the management of the Jacksonville Suns changed this year, it appeared that Doug had lost some of his valuable contacts and the privilege of being on the field before games.   On his own accord, Doug went to the Jacksonville Baseball Grounds and requested to speak to the new manager of the team.  A short time later, Doug was out on the field in uniform to present the lineups.  As noted by Doug himself, "This is my way to help cheer on the team which is a great part of Jacksonville. Go Suns!"

The book - "Doug's Story" - is filled with a number of other stories that we can all enjoy and, at times, marvel at.  Nora Roberts, an American author, seems to sum up how Doug lives his life.  Here is a great quote to keep in mind:

"If you don't go after what you want, you'll never have it. If you don't ask, the answer is always no. If you don't step forward, you're always in the same place."  

Doug Fry's world, work ethic, and adventures are filled with about every word except "don't" or "can't".   The book - "Doug's Story" - is complete and available at Barnes & Noble, barnesandnoble.com, Amazon, and Kindle; however, Doug's work for the wonderful customers of Publix is far from over. Doug plans on working for Publix for many years into the future while also living life to the fullest.

Follow the lead and example set by Doug Fry and live life to the fullest. Along the way, put in a hard day's work and treat others with respect and courtesy.  The Good Deed Brigade salutes Doug Fry on his 20 years with Publix, his sense of adventure, and his zest for life.