In the town of Tupelo, Mississippi, there is a population of 37,000 but a daily workforce of 84,000 according to the Community Development Foundation (CDF). It is also the home of Dossett Big 4 and has been constant in the community for 45 years. Rudy “Big Rudy” Dossett, and his namesake, “Little Rudy,” have taken care of the community’s transportation needs the only way they know how: by building relationships, exceeding expectations and creating a positive experience where customers become friends, and friends return with repeat business. When asked about the dealership’s success, Rudy is quick to mention that none of this would be possible without his lovely wife, Sandra “Sandy” Elizabeth. The two purchased the store together in 1980. At the time, prime interest rates were 21%, which prompted the previous owner to sell the dealership. “Everyone wanted to commit me for buying anything at 21%,” Rudy recalled. “That is everyone except my wife. She trusted me.” Under the new ownership of Rudy and Sandra, Dossett Big 4 opened for business on July 1, 1980. It was then that Rudy and Sandra made an agreement — Rudy would focus his time and energy on work so he could provide for the family, and Sandra would be the monarch of the house, focus her efforts on the home and take care of their two children, Little Rudy and Noel. “Sandy is a critical part of the equation. She has freed me up so I can focus on the car business six days a week. 11
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