A beloved Watertown landmark that has served the community for 82 years has made the difficult decision to close its doors on Wednesday April, 16th 2025
Joey’s Army Navy Store, located at 28 Depot Street in Watertown, CT, has a rich history that began during World War II when it first opened out of the back of a humble station wagon. The store has been a cherished resource for quality offerings, including used military supplies, repurposed factory rejects, and overstock items that filled a unique niche in the community. Its original owner, known only as Ray, dedicated himself to driving to farms and other customers, sharing what he could and capitalizing on military surplus to support those in need. Ray eventually established his first storefront on Lakewood Avenue in Waterbury, naming it Ray’s Army Navy Store. The shop has moved twice since then, including to a location on Main Street in Watertown, before settling at its current home on Depot Street, where it has welcomed customers for the past 32 years. Joseph F. D’Averso, who started working at the shop when he was just 15 years old, purchased it from Ray and renamed it Joey’s, keeping the spirit of service alive. In July 2020, Joseph sold the business to the dedicated current owner, Kristen Hyduchak. Joey’s Army Navy Store has been a place of connection and support, open Mondays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Special after-hour appointments are available by calling the store or reaching out to Kristen via email. For those looking for more information, you can visit their website. • 860-274-3278 • [email protected] • https://joeys-army-navy.square.site As this chapter closes, the community reflects on the memories and the contributions Joey’s Army Navy Store has made over the decades. It will surely be missed by many.
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