Stop-N-Shop mourns Bud Fordham Jr.

Bud Fordham Jr. was a beloved fixture at Stop N Shop for more than 60 years.

The Stop N Shop family is mourning the loss of longtime employee Bud Fordham Jr., who died September 2, 2025.

Fordham began working at Stop N Shop in the 1960s for founder Bill Yee and became a fixture for generations of Leland residents. Known for his warm smile and kind word for every customer, he “never met a stranger,” the store shared.

Community members filled social media with tributes, recalling Fordham’s dedication and friendly spirit.

“He was a special man … connected with our family for years,” one commenter wrote. Others remembered his stories, his years as a “flag man,” and the joy he brought to shoppers.

Fordham is remembered as “the greatest, friendliest butcher of all times” and a man devoted to his family. Friends say they take comfort knowing he is reunited with his beloved wife, Margie.