Shaunna Johnson has been running The Colonial Restaurant since it’s reopened Wednesday.
“We’ve been trying to open the restaurant for employees and back to working and trying to get some type of normal again,” said Johnson.
She’s taken the lead after her mother and co-owner Jody Rhoda was shot nearly two weeks ago.
Chipley police charged Emmanuel Lockhart for attempted murder, robbery, and burglary.
Johnson said she and her family are grateful for the customers that helped her mother.
“We thank the three individuals that helped her that day and called 9-1-1, and came to her rescue, we owe them everything,” said Johnson.
Rene Garrett from Virginia says she loves The Colonial Restaurant because it meets her family’s needs.
“I have a disabled son, and he has joined us here and they welcome him here and they treat him like an adult,” said Garrett.
Kenneth and Leslie Kelley have been to the colonial restaurant for 7 years and admire Rhoda for her service.
“She’s a very hard worker, and constantly keeps track of what’s going on and working in the community. She expects, but she gives a lot. That’s a pretty good combination,” said Kenneth Kelley.
Johnson said she and her staff are getting back on their feet, and are getting used to their new normal.
“The local police department has been great in regards to surveillance around the building for us, for our staff to make sure everyone feel safe,” said Johnson.
Jody Rhoda is expected to return home in a week or so.
She’s right now in recovery at HealthSouth.
