William Milton Davis, the founder of Winn-Dixie, was a businessman who recognized the changing tides of the grocery industry. Here’s a quick rundown of his life:

• He began his career in general stores, helping his father and opening his own.
• Faced challenges when the cash-and-carry model emerged, forcing him to adapt.
• In 1925, he took a bold step, borrowing money to move to Miami and purchase Rockmoor Grocery, a self-serve store.
• He instilled his business principles of tenacity and opportunism in his four sons.
• Sadly, William passed away in 1934, leaving his sons to continue building the Winn-Dixie empire.