Franklin County Lumber has been a trusted part of the community for decades. Today, Derek Worley is helping carry that work forward, serving alongside his father as they prepare the business for the next generation. Watching his father, Donnie Worley, grow Franklin County Lumber while raising a family left a lasting impression from an early age.
“Watching my dad build a business while raising our family inspired me from a young age,” Derek said. “Seeing his dedication, hard work, and commitment showed me the value of establishing something meaningful that can benefit future generations.”
Donnie’s example ultimately influenced his son’s career path. Now working alongside his father at Franklin County Lumber, Derek is helping continue a business built on hard work, strong relationships, and a longstanding commitment to serving the community.
“I hope to continue growing and strengthening it so that one day my own children will have the chance to be part of it and carry on the legacy,” he said.
Derek spent much of his childhood around Franklin County Lumber. Time at the lumber yard gave him an early introduction to the business and the people who helped make it successful.
“Some of my earliest memories are going to work with my dad and running around the lumberyard,” he said.
As he grew older, those childhood visits turned into responsibilities. During high school, he began working in the yard, learning the products, understanding the business, and gaining firsthand experience alongside longtime employees.
“I always enjoyed being outside, learning about the products we sold, and gaining an understanding of the many different aspects of the business,” he said.
Just as valuable as learning the business itself was learning from the people who helped make it successful.
“Working with our employees gave me an appreciation for the hard work they put in each day,” Derek said. “It taught me the importance of treating people with respect and appreciating those who help make the business successful.”
Those early lessons continued after he officially joined the company. Working alongside his father has provided opportunities to learn far more than inventory, sales, or operations.
“It has been an honor to work alongside my dad,” Derek said. “Over the years, he has taught me the importance of a strong work ethic, financial wisdom, and personal responsibility.”
His father also made sure those lessons were earned.
“He was never easy on me,” Derek said. “I was expected to earn my place and learn the business the right way. Looking back, I appreciate that more than ever.”
That approach prepared him to navigate an industry that is constantly changing. While many customers simply purchase materials, those inside the business understand how closely the lumber industry is tied to national and global economic conditions.
“It has been continually surprising to see how much prices have changed over the years,” Derek said. “The COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented fluctuations in supply and demand that changed the way many people viewed building materials.”
Those experiences reinforced the importance of adaptability, careful planning, and maintaining strong relationships with both customers and suppliers.
One of the defining characteristics of Franklin County Lumber has always been the relationships built along the way. After years of serving the community, many customers have become trusted friends.
“We are honored to have served our community for so many years,” he said. “Over time, many of our customers have become more than customers — they have become friends.”
Those relationships are what continue to make the work meaningful.
“Being able to serve generations of families and build lasting connections within the community is something I value and never take for granted,” Derek said.
As the next generation helps lead the company, technology has naturally changed many aspects of the business. New computer systems and updated tools have improved efficiency, but the company’s core values have remained consistent.
“Our business has evolved over the years, and we have implemented new computer programs and technologies to help us operate more efficiently and better serve our customers,” he said. “While the tools we use may change, our values remain the same.”
Among the most rewarding moments of his career has been watching another generation begin its own experience at Franklin County Lumber.
“My oldest son has started working with us,” Derek said. “It has been especially meaningful to watch him work alongside his grandfather and learn from him the same way I did.”
He also points to the lasting relationships built with local contractors as one of the business’s greatest rewards.
“Having customers and contractors put their faith in us time and time again is something we never take for granted,” he said. “Those partnerships are built on honesty, service, and mutual respect.”
Looking ahead, Derek hopes to continue strengthening both the business and the community it serves. His goal is not to reinvent what has already been established, but to faithfully build upon it while preparing the next generation to do the same.
“My goal is to build on the foundation my dad has established and continue making Franklin County Lumber as successful as he has over the years,” Derek said. “Just as my father has done for me, I hope that one day I will have the privilege of passing the business on to my children.” GN
