Pat Gee’s Barbeque celebrates 63 years of service
TYLER, Texas (KETK) – As we continue to honor black history, we take a drive down Highway 31 in Tyler and stop at Pat Gee’s BBQ, a place that’s been around for 60-plus years.
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“My mom really, I guess she’s the one who came up with the idea to do the barbecue because she’s a pretty good cook, herself,” said owner Billy Walker.
Pat Gee’s BBQ was started six decades ago by Billy Walker’s parents in their home, which has marinated into a successful family business.
“She would do all the barbecue and then once it got done, we would get it and bring it down here and sell it,” added Walker.
For customers like Karen Flowers, going to Pat Gee’s is a family tradition.
“We came here with our dad and their dad was running the place and we would come here after a hard day’s work out in the country on the farm, and it was wonderful. It was the best thing ever. We looked forward to it every week. It was great,” said customer Karen Flowers
“I was here when Mr. and Mrs. Gee were alive, and that’s where I started here in May. And after I had my first sandwich, that was it, I had to come here. The only problem I’ve had is you’ve got to be careful, if you get it on your fingers, you’re liable to gnaw finger off and I ain’t lying,” laughed customer Rusty Mitchum.
Walker said throughout the years he and his siblings wanted to keep this business alive and he is glad to see the longevity of the location.
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“It’s amazing, through the whole lot of changes that have been made and, really I didn’t think I’ll be here this long though, but it’s great,” said Walker.
Their grandson Malik has been working with the family since he was 8, and now he’s focused on keeping their legacy alive.
“I just hope we can stay open for the next 60-plus years. That’s the goal I want my great grandma’s dream to continue on even when we’re all gone. That’s why I plan to– I actually have big plans for this place within the next ten, or 20 years. I’ve been planning since I was 13,” added Malik Walker.
As they look to continue serving the community for the next 60 years, the Walkers want you to stop by Friday-Sunday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
“The best thing is the satisfaction, you know that they enjoyed the meal and they do. I enjoy, you know, getting to meet people then and talk to them and see what they are thinking and everything. It’s just a really enjoyable experience,” said Walker.
“I like to see people with smiles on their faces, you know, because most people don’t really get that quality barbecue, especially at the prices that are going up right now,” added Malik.
Walker adds new customer favorites are the BBQ ribs and the regulars love the beef and chicken.
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