Robertson County Neighbors - Coats Grocery Ushers In a New Generation

Coats Grocery, originally opened in the early 1900s by J.A. and Mildred Ely, has long been a cornerstone of the community. The store operated successfully until 1964, when J.A. tragically passed away from a heart attack. At that time, his daughter, Wanda Coats, and her husband, Alfred, moved from Lamesa, Texas, to continue the family legacy.
Al and Wanda put down roots in Gause, Texas, where they raised their family. Over the years, their children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren got their first work experiences running the register, stocking the shelves and wrapping deli slices. For 65 years, Al and Wanda lived, loved, and contributed to the heartbeat of Gause, with Coats Grocery serving as a central hub for the community.
In 2023, Al passed away, and just four months later, Wanda, the love of his life, followed. With uncertainty about the future but a strong desire to carry on the family legacy, their grandson, Kane Coats, and great-grandson, Phillip Rasco, along with the support of Kevin Coats, and James and Sherri Rasco, stepped up to take the reins. Since these fourth and fifth generation Coats/Rasco family members stepped foot in the store as owners, they have done their level best to revive the spirit of their grandparents in the store. The store has returned to a hub of the community and has a large menu of great offerings for lunch or dinner. Al Coats was known for a juicy burger, and the critics agree that Kane and Phillip have put as much love into their burgers as their predecessor always did. Grab yourself a salty snack and an Icy cold soda while you wait for your meal and take in the Gause ambiance. 
Starting March 10, Coats Grocery is now open until 6:30 PM from Monday to Friday. Their grill will be open until 6:00 PM on these days. Starting Monday, March 17, their menu will include burgers, chicken nuggets with fries, hot sandwiches, BLT, chicken strips, and steak finger baskets until 6:00 PM on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, they offer everything except burgers. Saturday specials will be posted weekly. For more information, please call 979-279-3153.