The End of an Amarillo Era: Why the Georgia Street Market Street Will Never Feel the Same After February 19

There is not a week that goes by that I don't make a stop at Market Street on Georgia Street in Amarillo. More often than not, my shopping trips include a quick chat with Matt Edwards.

A "Day One" Legacy: Matt Edwards' 26 Years at Market Street

If you have done your shopping at Market Street as well, you have seen Matt. He is the store director and has been there since day one when they opened back in 2000. It’s hard to believe the store has been a community staple for twenty-six years.
Read More: There Has Been An Unexpected Change to Amarillo's Market Street

Matt has been a part of the United family for 40 years, so it's crazy to think that after Thursday, February 19th, stopping and chatting with Matt will not be a part of my shopping experience. He is retiring. I do say congrats and good for him. I also know that I could always count on Matt whenever I needed something.

Every year, he was my go-to at a former job of mine to order cases and cases of black-eyed peas that I needed for our employees to pick up. I knew that a simple email and he would make sure they had the product in stock.

More Than a Manager: Stories of Personal Impact and Kindness

One summer, I received a sentimental birthday present because of Matt. I was talking with a friend about a sign they had outside with the seasonal items for sale. The cost was pretty hefty because it was made of metal. I really wanted it. It was a simple sign that said "Grill". Grill was the last name I was born with.

So my friend went to Matt. Of course, she knew him too and explained the situation. She told him why I wanted it and that it was for my upcoming birthday. He was able to work his magic and lower the price so that my friend could buy it for me. That sign proudly hangs in my dining room.

Trading Grocery Carts for Family Time: Matt’s Next Chapter

Matt recently had a retirement party, and now it is on to more time with his family. He’ll finally be free from the chaos of Amarillo shoppers every time snow is in the forecast. There will be no more stressing about the holiday shoppers and bare shelves; it's going to be perfect for him.

A Message of Gratitude: Matt Edwards Says Goodbye to His United Family

I have been blessed with two families that I love dearly! I will be leaving my United family so I can spend more time with the amazing family God has blessed me with. It was a very special evening and I am humbled by all the kind words. - Matt Edwards

I am going to miss my chats with Matt and the days he brought my groceries out to my car. The aisles of Market Street on Georgia are going to feel a bit emptier as we will all miss Matt, but so happy that he is getting the retirement he deserves.