An institution in Orange will be closing its doors. Harry’s Appliances, serving Orange and the surrounding area for more than six decades has announced a Going Out of Business Sale. It will go on through the end of June when the store celebrates its 64th Anniversary.
Owner Harry Stephens passed away in April 2024 at the age of 82. His wife, Margie, who worked side by side with Harry on a daily basis since they married in 1992, has been running the store by herself.
“It’s a difficult decision,” Margie said. “We’ve been so busy that I haven’t had time to grieve. His desk is exactly like it was the last day he was here. Even the sweet snacks he used to think he was hiding from me are still there.”
“But I’ve also decided to retire because I have some health issues that need to be addressed. Harry built his reputation on customer service and we’ve tried to continue that but I know I’m going to need some time away. And honestly, it’s just not the same here without him.”
Margie said she would like to see the store stay open and she’s willing to listen to anyone that is interested. “It’s an institution here and one of the few locally owned appliance stores in the region,” she said. “I would love for it to continue.”
Harry’s was also known for many of the antiques and collectibles he kept in their office that is decorated with a black and white checkerboard floor. That also includes a near life size Elvis and Marilyn Monroe. Margie called it his Man Cave. Besides the appliances, many of those items are also for sale.
“Obviously we want to thank our customers for coming back to us time and again. We’ve become good friends with so many of them.”
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