A business embedded in the fabric of Canton has closed its doors.

Canton Supply's last day of operations was Feb. 26, and inventory inside the store will be sold for auction April 17 at the building, located at 2127 Marietta Highway in Canton.

The business was owned and operated by Bill Weeks, who died last March.

"It was due to the economy," said Lory Weeks of Canton, one of Weeks' daughters.

Weeks' wife Brooke of Fyffe, Ala., took over operations during the latter stages of her husband's life.

Canton Supply opened in 1958 in a small building near the county fairgrounds. In 1962, the business moved to Marietta Highway.

The business was known for its vast selection of goods for the plumbing, electrical and building industry.

"If you couldn't find it at Canton Supply, you couldn't find it anywhere," Ms. Weeks added. "If you lived in Canton, you went to Canton Supply."

Jim Weeks of Jasper, Weeks' oldest son, said he "really hates" that the business has ceased operations.

The younger Weeks said he would often work there as a child and said he had "so many good memories" of the store.

Weeks said he saw many people come through and continue to come back because of the service his father was determined to offer.

"Our main function was to provide good service," Weeks said. "No matter what you are doing, you were supposed to help the customer."

Bill Weeks grew up in Benson, N.C.. He joined the Army to fight during World War II and received a Bronze Star medal for his service.

After moving to Canton and starting Canton Supply, he served as a county commissioner during the 1970s and was heavily involved in Canton First United Methodist Church.

Both Weeks' children said they believe Canton Supply and their father will be remembered for his honest character and his determination to make customers happy.

Retired home builder James Williams will be one of those who will continue to praise Canton Supply.

Williams, who lives in the Clayton community, began visiting Canton supply in the 1960s.

Williams added that Canton Supply had all the materials he needed to get his business going, and Weeks remained steadfast in providing the best service to his customers.

"He was a big help in helping me get started in my business," he said. "He was not only a friend, but a good and honest friend."