Page 5 - Robeson Living Spring 2021

ness, but I did have a great desire to succeed. One day while
having lunch at the Carolina Cafe on Chestnut Street, I saw Jackie O’Neil Designs
a “For Rent” sign in the window of the Scottish Bank build-
ing (located on the corner of Fourth and Chestnut Streets). It
was a very small space, but I thought it could become a nice
little dress shop. The next step was for me to come up with the
money. I immediately contacted my aunt, Mary V. Blackwell,
who could help me financially. When I told her what I had in
mind, she offered to become my partner in this venture. She Jewelry, Snap Jewelry, Handbags,
had already retired from business and was willing to be a part-
time partner.

Through her we were able to be listed with Dun and Bradstreet
for credit purposes which was necessary to run a successful Tunics, Leggings, Gifts & More
business. We immediately started working on our plans for de-
sign, fixtures, carpet, drapes and deciding the type of clothes
to carry. There were lots of decisions to make, but a lot of fun
to be had, too.”

She had saved a little money while working for Lumberton
Implement Co. and her aunt agreed to put in an equal amount.
The remaining amount needed to start the operation was a loan
from her aunt’s husband.

Jack and Evelyn Price

graduated from Barker Ten-Mile High School. Even though the
United States was already engaged in World War II she entered
the Raleigh School of Commerce. She listened as recruiters
who were visiting all business colleges encouraged students
to apply for civil service. After graduation, she went to Wash-
ington, D.C. and worked at the Pentagon in General George
Marshall’s office as a stenographer and clerk. I-95 Exit 22, Behind Wendy’s

“While in Washington, I married Robert F. Lemar and moved
to Springfield, Mass. where my daughter, Donna Marie Lemar
Poston, was born. When she was only a few months old, she 910.536.1497
and I came back home where I had left only a few years earlier.
After a few months, I was hired as a secretary to Mr. Bryce
Gleaton at Lumberton Implement Company, the International
Harvester dealer at that time. Soon Mr. Gleaton offered me the Check us out on Facebook and Instagram!
bookkeeper’s job and I accepted. I worked for him for four
years and decided that I wanted to go in business for myself.” Text JACKIEO to 51660 to receive special discounts

The Fashion Bar and promotions!
Mrs. Price recalled how the plan for the store came about “the
idea of being my own boss, the freedom as well as the respon-
sibility appealed to me. I did not have the money to go in busi- www.jackieoneildesigns.com

Robeson Living ~ Spring 2021 The Fashion Bar advertisement for Grand Opening