JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The parking lot at Jim's Place on Sunday was much like it has been for the past three decades - packed. As patrons inside enjoyed the music, food, beverages, and company they've become accustomed to over the last 33 years, there was a different buzz in the air.
Jim Jones, owner of the business at 7900 Arlington Expressway, said he's decided to retire.
"We're going to miss this place," said Margie Braswell standing inside the lobby of the nightclub on Sunday. She moved to Jacksonville in 2001 and befriended Jones and his wife Gloria. "It's been a good experience where Black folks can go, have a good time, and be safe."
A few feet from where Braswell was standing was a poster on the wall with a heartfelt and personal note from Jones to his patrons about why he's decided to hang up his bar towel for good.
"After serving seven years in the Army during the Vietnam War, I decided that I had a war here at home to fight for: Freedom and acceptance. So, I got a job that lasted almost 20 years before being laid off at age 45. I then vowed to take control of my life and invest all of my savings from my 401K plan into my own business, thus the birth of Jim's Place on January 1, 1991.
"In 200 I had a fight with cancer, that also returned 10 years later. I underwent radiation treatment to finally rid my body of cancer. In 2020, I suffered a stroke that really slowed both my movement and memory. Thus, at age 78, I think it's time to say 'retirement.' May God bless you for all the love, respect, and support you have shown me. Now let's party this final month of December with a four-hour happy hour each and every day we are open until December 31. After 33 years of blessings, trials, and tribulations, we will be closed for good as of January 1, 2024. Thank you for the memories!"
Rodney Hearman has been going to Jim's Place for 20 years. "It's a nice place. No violence. Old school music. Respectful. Good people and good eating.
