For 54 years, Cecil Clark Chevrolet has operated more than a Leesburg automobile dealership.

The business founded in 1972 by Navy veteran Cecil Clark and expanded by his son Greg has built generations of customer relationships, community involvement and family tradition.

The dealership officially entered a new chapter last year when Cecil’s grandson Joseph took over operations following the retirement of his father, Greg.

“There’s a huge sense of pride and duty that comes with becoming the third-generation Chevrolet dealer of a company my grandfather founded,” Joseph says.

Cecil opened the dealership after a successful career selling Chevrolet pickup trucks and Frigidaire refrigerators door-to-door. He considered opening locations in places like Key West and Myrtle Beach, but ultimately chose Leesburg because he believed it was the best place to raise a family.

More than five decades later, Joseph says the family remains committed to continuing that same customer-focused approach while adapting to a rapidly growing Central Florida market.

“With the migration of new residents to our community, they need look no further than one of the oldest family-run dealerships in Florida,” Joseph says.

Joseph works alongside his wife, Brenna, who serves as vice president of the dealership. Together, they focus on balancing modernization with the family values the dealership was built on.

“We work side-by-side every day,” Joseph says. “Our commitment is offering customers nothing short of five-star service for their hard-earned dollar.”

The dealership has also expanded its community involvement through local sponsorships, chamber events, athletics and education initiatives throughout Lake County. The dealership’s 53rd anniversary was marked with a Leesburg Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event, with City of Leesburg Mayor Alan Reisman among the more than 150 guests who came out to celebrate.

“It’s my town, my backyard, my neighborhood,” Joseph says. “This isn’t just about selling cars. It’s about being part of the community.”

Joseph says he is excited about the future of Chevrolet and the next generation of vehicles focused on comfort, style, safety and technology.

“My family will be serving Central Florida for another half century,” Joseph says. “That gives me a great sense of joy and satisfaction.”