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Effingham Magazine

When a Team is Like Family

When a Team is Like Family

Wiley’s Home Center provides room furnishings, home décor, appliances and so much more, all within 35,000 square feet of space. Detra Thomas is owner and president of Wiley’s.

“We sell all these things, but we are mainly interested in establishing a relationship with our clients. Our focus is on understanding the customer’s needs and exceeding their expectations,” Detra stated.

Wiley’s has been serving the community for a long time. That type of success has been a direct result of their team of devoted professionals.

“The store’s success is mainly due to my amazing team and their commitment to excellence,” Detra added.

Peggy, who has been the office manager since 1989, has “experienced, first-hand, the generosity and giving nature of the Thomas family.” That generosity has been shown to the Wiley’s team and within the community itself.

“It isn’t just about selling furniture or appliances. It’s about helping the people in and around our community, including those who work for Wiley’s,” Peggy said.

Customer service, too, is incredibly important to the Wiley’s family. The staff takes great pride in providing customers with the products and services that will best meet their needs.

According to Detra, Betty Chaffin, who has been the store’s accounts receivable specialist since 1997, is one of the reasons that Wiley’s customer service is so superior, while Allen Gnann, long-time service specialist, “brings his unparalleled expertise to the service department.” In addition, Karen Page, Wiley’s design specialist, “brings her creative touch” to the store’s showroom. Debbie Wilson, Wiley’s “go-to guru,” joined the team in 2017; she brought her many talents in retail service and sales, and she is a valuable part of the team. Victoria Westbrook, a successful salesperson and brand new mom, has contributed her many talents as well. Also, Donna Horton, who is Detra’s sister, recently joined the Wiley’s team on a part-time basis, assisting with inventory management. Donna is co-owner of Horton’s General Store.

 “I’ve always wanted to be able to help in the family business, and the opportunity finally arrived, ” Donna stated.

Michaela O’Conner is the newest on the block. Her natural people skills have brought a fresh new energy to the store, while Lee Brown is Wiley’s treasured housekeeper/comedian and certainly adds value to the team.

“She always keeps us laughing,” Detra said.

Detra notices the contributions made by each member of her team. She brags on her exemplary delivery guys.

“The feedback from our customers speaks volumes on how well they do their job. John Dotson has been with Wiley’s since 2001. Frank Blue, Chuck Layton and Jon Smith are top notch and always go the extra mile to make sure the job is complete,” she stated.

Wiley’s Home Center’s unique stories, experiences, compassion and commitment to excellence set it apart from any other furniture store. Detra knows that without her team, there would be no Wiley’s.

“I am in awe of my team every day. I thank God for providing the right people at the right time. More importantly, I am truly blessed to call these people my friends and family. Come in and see for yourself the Wiley’s difference.”

(912) 826.2932
WileysHomeCenter.com
1202 N. Columbia Ave. Rincon