The Beginning of Me & McGee Market

The Beginning

Larry (McGee) and Debbie (Me) unintentionally started the Me and McGee endeavor with pecans. Debbie wanted to make some extra money in retirement and decided to utilize the 9 large pecans trees on the property. In the fall of 2011, Debbie and Larry began collecting, cracking and shelling pecans. Larry would take the shelled pecans and set up on the side of the road.

The spring of 2012 they decided to plant a small garden. Being outside and working the garden was an enjoyable way for Larry, Debbie and their family to do something together. Soon thereafter travelers on Highway 70 began to stop by and ask if they could buy produce from the garden. This was the light bulb moment. Larry and Debbie could work from home and make a little extra money. Pecans took over again in the fall.

The garden expanded the following year and a cedar produce stand was finished in June of 2013. Only relying on homegrown vegetables the McGee’s quickly needed more fresh produce. Larry was on it! He met and made many new relationships. These relationships allowed access to more local produce to go with what was produced at home. Now with access to larger quantities of cucumbers and tomatoes, they decided to make pickles and salsa to reduce waste. The canned goods were a game changer and the demand increased incredibly.

Although Me and McGee “Produce” was growing, devastating blows began to happen. Larry was diagnosed again with cancer and unseemingly endless bouts of heart issues. Through sheer will and perseverance, Larry pushed through to the pain, weakness and fatigue to make the business work. He made deliveries, worked projects and continued to grow their passion.

Debbie’s daughter Neva and her husband Steve moved from Maumelle to the property in May of 2014. Being on the property gave them the ability to be more involved with the stand and be there for Larry and Debbie. The ups and downs of battling a terminal disease took their toll on the family. Faced with shutting down the business in which Larry and Debbie committed so much, Neva decided to leave her longtime job at Acxiom to dedicate herself to “the stand”.

Neva has an eye for decorating and picture taking. She has helped create an even more pleasing experience and built up Me and McGee on social media.

Larry passed away September 11th, 2016. His memory and influence is strong and the family strives to make him proud.

2013