08/28/2026
Many years ago we purchased what used to be “The Second Chance” here in Macon. So many folks used to buy from Cathey Smith and we knew we were buying Macon history.
The Smith family has been very supportive of us and our vision to bring 7th Street Salvage to life. They became cheerleaders, customers, and Cathey’s brother Willie became the 7th Street Salvage Santa.
We knew him as the jovial (and loud!) Santa, leather worker and Vietnam Vet. He was also a Santa at Bass Pro shops and other location. He loved being Santa, he read from his leather bound books and carried a leather “naughty and nice list” with the loudest “Ho, Ho, Ho!” you ever did hear.
While the news right now is about his passing, our hearts are with the Smith family.
Rest in Peace, Santa Willie.
Photo by Kaylee McCullough