After 54 years of dedicated service in Warren, Cato’s Fashions made the difficult decision to close its doors on July 18, 2023, as part of their scaling-down efforts. Now, the owners, the OwensBailey family, is seeking a buyer to usher in a new and vibrant retail business, carrying forward the cherished legacy of the Cato’s store according to Will Owens.
The story of Cato’s Fashions and its profound impact on downtown Warren unfolded over the course of more than five decades. The family behind the iconic establishment, the OwensBailey family, reflect on their journey as they prepare to pass on the torch to a new retail venture.
In 1969, clothing merchant Charlie Owens struck a lease agreement with Wayland Cato, founder of Cato’s Fashions, to introduce a women’s store to the heart of Warren. The addition of Cato’s breathed new life into the community, providing trendy clothing options and fostering a thriving commerce.
Tragically, Charlie Owens passed away shortly after the agreement, followed by his wife Thelma in 1970, leaving the building to their children, Wayne Owens and Marilyn Bailey. Despite the loss, Cato’s persevered and became an integral part of Warren’s fabric.
In 1990, Wayne Owens, who ran Owens Men’s Store downtown, also passed away, leaving the building to his three children, Cynthia Owens MacHenry, Dan Owens, and Will Owens. Will Owens, who had recently earned his real estate license, found himself in Charlotte, N.C., where Cato Corporation’s headquarters were located. He took over the lease management for his siblings and aunt Marilyn, cementing the family’s connection with Cato’s.
Over the years, downtown Warren experienced transformations, with buildings rising and falling.
Cato’s persisted through economic challenges and the impact of the 2020 Covid pandemic, thanks to unwavering support from the community and its significance as a vital retail presence for other merchants.
The journey of the Cato’s building reflects the resilience and spirit of the Warren community, and the OwensBailey family looks forward to embracing a new chapter in the legacy of downtown Warren.
