80 Years Young

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Celebrating 80 Years of Serving Central New York

2017 marks our 80th year in business. 80 Years of serving the Central New York community we call home. 80 years of helping homeowners and contractors build this warm and welcoming community, one building at a time. 80 years of changing economics, changing technology, changing environmental issues, and changing needs. Through it all, we have adapted, changed, grown, and met the changing needs of our customers.

Through eight decades, there are just a few things that haven’t changed: our local ownership, and our focus on providing friendly, experienced, informed service to those who trust us with their needs.

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Delivery truck circa 1975

The world was a very different place in 1937, when Joseph T. Kelly and Thomas Jones (the “J” and “K” that inspired our name) founded JAY-K Lumber. Since 1938, we’ve maintained the same location for our headquarters on Seneca Turnpike, growing along with the amazing economic development of the area. In 1941, Mr. Jones sold his interest in the business to the Kellys, and ownership has remained in the Kelly family ever since.

Over the years, we’ve made many changes, including one of the first “drive-through” lumber yards, drive-through buildings, a drive-up window, specialized showrooms, and much more. We’ve also earned your respect and appreciation, receiving accolades that included “Business of the Year” and “Retailer of the Year”.

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Dean Kelly

Our current owners, cousins Dean and Jonas Kelly, became the third generation to oversee JAY-K Lumber. Under their leadership, personal and professional service, along with top quality products, continue to be our mainstays. Contractors and retail customers alike depend on us for great products and exemplary customer service. Dean and Jonas have also continued our tradition of saying “thank you” by giving back to the community that has given so much to us, with regular donations to numerous local charitable organizations.

As we celebrate 80 years of community service, we extend our sincerest appreciation for the tireless dedication of our exceptional employees, and for something we never take for granted: your continued support. Thank you.

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