Since 1902
Four generations. One family. One store.
The Beginning
Johnny's Store was built in 1902 in Namao, Alberta. It served as the lifeblood of the area: groceries, hardware, news, and the kind of community that doesn't exist in big box stores.
The Family
Owned and operated by the McNeilly family for four generations since 1931. In 2020, Julie-Ann and Brendan (siblings) inherited the landmark from their father and committed to keeping it alive.
Left to right: "Bud" McNeilly, Ollie McNeilly, and John "Johnny" McNeilly, circa late 1940s. Bud's Father "Red" ran the store from 1931 under the name Red's before passing it to his half-brother Johnny, who bought it in 1949 and gave it the name it carries today.
John McNeilly Jr. — son of Johnny and Ollie, and father of Julie-Ann and Brendan — pictured at one of his rides. A retired Edmonton police officer and lifelong motorcycle enthusiast.
The Renovation
Renovated by Brendan & Julie-Ann from 2022-2024. The store preserved its original bones while adding a coffee bar, a curated bottle shop, and a seasonal patio. Same place. New life.
JULIE-ANN & BRENDAN McNEILLY
Owners, 4th generation.
