Our Story: Built on Tradition. Driven by the Future.

Carrying on the tradition started in 1957 by Cleotis Lee, Sr., the Lee family established Lee Hardware and Building Supply in 1988. Under the leadership of Richard and Denise Lee, the company expanded its reach and capabilities—launching the Lee Industrial division in the 1990s and opening an additional physical location in Lakeland, Georgia in 2021.

Already recognized as an award-winning home center—earning honors such as the Valspar Platinum Dealer Award, the Hardware Connection Retail Beacon Award, and the Orgill Pinnacle
Award for Outstanding Independent Retailer—Lee Hardware and Building Supply built its reputation on exceptional customer service and competitive pricing. These same principles guided the company’s expansion into industrial, janitorial, and safety supply sectors, serving a broader range of customers across Southeast Georgia.

A proud minority-owned business, with Denise Lee and third-generation owner Heather Lee Bruner at the helm, the company has long stood as a model for building lasting community roots. Through partnerships with workforce development programs and hands-on training initiatives, Lee Hardware has remained committed to preparing the next generation of retailers. This
dedication was recognized with the Helping Hands Award from the Waycross-Ware County Development Authority for “investing in our future workforce.” The company continues to actively support local charities, school systems, and community sports programs.

Today, Lee Hardware and Building Supply continues to provide the community with quality products at competitive prices as a trusted local dealer for leading brands such as Case Knives, Milwaukee Tools, Traeger grills, Monument grills, Solo Stove, DeWalt, Metabo, Turtlebox audio, Yellowwood products, and as a proud 3M distributor. The company also carries a full line of Georgia Boots and essential safety gear for the working community. Its award-winning paint department offers a complete selection of Valspar products, including advanced color-matching capabilities across all major paint brands.

The Waycross lumber yard remains a cornerstone of operations, stocking materials for projects of all sizes with convenient 1–2 day delivery options. Customers can also find top-quality windows, doors, and shingles to complete any build from start to finish.

A New Chapter of Ownership and Growth In continuing the legacy while embracing the future, Heather Bruner and her husband, Jamie Bruner, have officially purchased Lee Hardware and Building Supply from Richard and Denise Lee. As the new owners, they are building upon the strong foundation laid before them while leading the company into its next generation of growth.

In 2026, they expanded operations with the opening of Lee Hardware of Douglas, further strengthening their commitment to serving surrounding communities with the same level of
excellence customers have come to expect.

Continuing the family tradition, the fourth generation is already stepping in, with two of their three sons, Ben Bruner and Ethan Bruner, now actively involved in the business—helping ensure that the values of hard work, service, and community remain at the heart of everything Lee Hardware represents.

Looking Ahead As Lee Hardware and Building Supply moves forward, the mission remains clear: deliver quality products, provide unmatched customer service, and maintain competitive pricing—all while giving back to the communities that have supported its success for generations.