At the Shrimp Basket in Pensacola, Florida, one customer became part of the restaurant’s heartbeat. Charlie Hicks, 78, showed up every day—twice a day—for ten straight years. He always ordered the same thing: a cup of gumbo, light on the rice, no cracker.

Chef Donell Stallworth said you could count on it like clockwork. “Mr. Hicks don’t miss no days,” he said. “We open the doors, and Mr. Hicks is there.”

But then, one day in September, he wasn’t.

A Gut Feeling Something Was Wrong

When Hicks didn’t show up for lunch—or dinner—for several days, Stallworth knew something wasn’t right. He left work during his shift and drove straight to Hicks’ apartment.

He knocked over and over, but there was no answer. Just as he was about to walk away, he heard a faint voice: “Help.”

Stallworth opened the door and found Hicks on the floor. He didn’t know how long he’d been there, but it had been at least a few days. Hicks was badly dehydrated and had two broken ribs. But thanks to Stallworth, help arrived just in time.

More Than a Customer — A Family Bond

The Shrimp Basket team didn’t stop there. First, they brought Hicks his favorite gumbo in the hospital.

 

Then they helped him find a new apartment—right next door to the restaurant—so they could keep an eye on him.

They even furnished the place, getting him new appliances and making sure it felt like home.

 

Three months later, Hicks walked back through the Shrimp Basket doors and into his usual spot. As if nothing had changed—except the love and care behind every bowl of gumbo.

“He’s That Uncle, That Grandfather, That Best Friend”

“I’m glad to have you back, buddy,” Stallworth said as Hicks returned.

Hicks smiled and sat at his favorite table. “We made a connection,” he said.

Stallworth agreed. “He’s that uncle. He’s that grandfather. He’s that best friend. He’s all in one.”

Their bond started over gumbo—but what they found was family.

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