‘With a heavy heart,’ Bill’s Donut Shop owners decide to close temporarily

Action was taken ‘for the safety and well being of customers and staff.’
Bill’s Donut Shop in Centerville has won national recognition for its sweets and is a favorite late-night stop for many teenagers. TY GREENLEES / STAFF

Bill’s Donut Shop in Centerville has won national recognition for its sweets and is a favorite late-night stop for many teenagers. TY GREENLEES / STAFF
What to Know
By Mark Fisher
March 17, 2020
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Bill’s Donut Shop doughnuts — one of Dayton area’s most popular comfort foods in times of trouble — won’t be available when they’re needed most.

The Centerville doughnut shop, which does not have a drive-through window, has suspended operations, its owners, Lisa Tucker and Jim Elam said on the Bill’s Donut Shop Facebook page.

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“For the safety and well-being of customers and staff, it is with heavy heart that we have decided to close today (Monday, March 16) at 3 p.m.,” the notice says. “We appreciate everyone's patience and understanding at this time. We will reopen as soon as possible.”

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The announcement elicited reactions that included plenty of support and understanding, but also some grief.

“You must take care of your own,” one Facebook commenter wrote to the shop’s owners. “You give so much of yourselves to the community. Be safe.”

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“Thanks for keeping us safe and all of you as well!” another commenter said. “We appreciate you and all you do. We look forward to visiting when you reopen.”

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Another Bill’s fan added a pair of weeping emojis to her comment: “I’m not going to be able to get my donut fix today!”

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About the Author

Mark Fisher, a 1981 graduate of Ohio State University and a 1976 graduate of Beavercreek High School, is a third-generation Dayton-area resident who has worked for the Dayton Daily News since 1983. He covered higher education and K-12 education accountability issues for nearly 20 years before taking over the food and dining beat in 2006.