ABOUT ROOSTER BUSH DEALERSHIPS...
R. L. "Rooster" Bush started his first used car business in a tiny office under an "oak tree" outside of Lenoir, NC in the community of Whitnel in 1951. Today, we have two General Motor's dealerships, in Morganton and in Lenoir, NC.
With word of mouth as the greatest advertisement, business grew rapidly. In 1957 the Oldsmobile franchise was purchased from a relative, Mr. Herbert Smith. This business was located on Willow Street in a livery stable and known as Lenoir Motors.
In just a matter of a few short months Rooster had outgrown the location. The dealership relocated in 1958 to "Smith Crossroads" on Highway 321. This was a very exciting move, as this building even included a show room that could display as many as three cars. Soon Rooster had developed such a reputation for honest deals and quality service that people from all over the southeast came to do business with him. In 1959 the Pontiac franchise was added with the GMC truck line to follow in 1960.
Soon, growing pains were soon to return, and as always Rooster had great expectations. In 1966 over thirty-two acres on Highway 321, south of Lenoir, were purchased and a new and modern facility was built on the hillside. In 2004 the Buick franchise was purchased to replace Oldsmobile. In 2005 the Chevrolet franchise was purchased.
In 1981 Rooster wanted to expand his business and he did so by purchasing the Cadillac, Pontiac, and GMC franchises in Morganton, NC. In 1985 a beautiful new facility was built on Interstate 40 at Exit 105. In 2007 the Chevrolet franchise was also added.
Over the years Rooster has always dedicated himself to his community and his church. Throughout his career he has received numerous awards and accolades. He has been elected to the "Automotive Hall of Fame" for Outstanding People in the Automotive Industry and he was elected and served on a variety of General Motors Dealer Councils. Most recently he received the prestigious "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association.
Rooster passed away November 2, 2011. In keeping with the tradition of this family business, Rooster's children, Barbara, Randy,and son-in-law, Greg continue Rooster's philosophy of "an honest deal" supported by General Motors award winning sales and service.
Barbara Bush and Sofie of Rooster Bush Chevy in Lenoir
present the Sawmills Community Optimist with a $500
check for their Youth Baseball Program.
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