BEDFORD — Historic Bedford Jewelers is closing, and Shirley O’Connor, the second-generation owner of Bedford Jewelers, is retiring after nearly a lifetime in the fine-jewelry business. To thank the community for its years of loyal support, Shirley is hosting a huge retirement and going-out-of-business sale, with savings of up to 70% off storewide. People are invited to Bedford Jewelers today to save on gold, diamonds, gemstones, engagement rings, and much more.

Bedford Jewelers is a beloved local store with more than 70 years of history. O’Connor’s father, Arthur Bishop, worked in the Waltham watch factory, and then opened a jewelry store and watch-repair business in Bedford in 1954, when O’Connor was 7 years old. The store developed into an all-around “ma-and-pa” jewelry store, selling gold, silver, diamonds, and colored gemstones, and offering repairs and gifts for every occasion.

A true family business, O’Connor grew up helping out at the store, her brother and sister worked in the store over the years, and her grandson, Kyle, helps manage the store today. The store moved into its current location at the Great Road Shopping Center when it opened in 1960, and has remained there until today, the center’s last remaining original tenant.

Bedford Jewelers has served generations of local families, and has made a positive impact on the community. The Arthur and Althea Bishop Memorial Fund donates a scholarship to a graduating student each year, honoring Bedford Jewelers’ founders, who were both caring, civic-minded people.

O’Connor expressed gratitude for the Bedford community’s support over the years.

“Getting to know my customers has been the best part of the job, as we’ve chatted and talked and shared life and memories and stories of our families,” she said. “The community has meant everything to us, and we’d like to thank you for your many years of loyal support.”

In her retirement, O’Connor plans to spend time with family and perhaps join a gardening club.

Hurry in to Bedford Jewelers today at the Great Road Shopping Center to wish O’Connor well in her next chapter and enjoy up to 70% off storewide at Bedford Jewelers’ huge retirement and going-out-of-business sale! Save on gold, diamonds, fine jewelry, and much more for a limited time only. At prices like these, inventory will move fast, so hurry in today!

The sale location is Bedford Jewelers at 317 Great Road in Bedford.