Meet Wendy Fay: From Navy Veteran to Community Favorite

Wendy Fay, a well-known figure at the Great Barrington Price Chopper, has built a reputation for her easygoing demeanor and leadership skills, even when dealing with the occasional grumpy customer. Originally from Milford, Connecticut, Fay has been a part of Berkshire County since 2002. Her journey has taken her from a career in the military to becoming a beloved community member.

Fay’s early life in Cheshire, where she graduated from Cheshire High School in 1978, was marked by her pioneering spirit. She became the first woman to work in a tree crew and spraying crew in her local area during the late 1970s. “I climbed trees and held my own with the guys,” she recalls, noting that her male colleagues were supportive, while younger trainees sometimes resisted her guidance.

After high school, Fay briefly attended Albright College before deciding to join the Navy at the age of 24. “I chose the Navy because there were more opportunities for travel,” she explains. Stationed initially in Hawaii on Ford Island, Fay’s military career led her to meet her husband, Brian Wegner, who served on the USS California.

Fay graduated as a Seabee, a naval construction worker, and underwent training in various locations, including Kauai and Virginia Beach. Her military service also took her to Souda Bay, Crete, where she spent 15 months on a naval support base. “The biggest benefit was meeting people from all over the world,” she reflects, emphasizing how her experiences abroad shaped her understanding of different cultures.

After her military service, Fay returned to Connecticut before relocating to Berkshire County. Following a family tragedy, she and her husband built a home across from her parents’ residence in Otis, allowing her to care for them as needed.

Fay describes her current role at Price Chopper as rewarding, highlighting the opportunity to meet interesting customers from various backgrounds. “There weren’t as many people from afar in the beginning, but now it’s different,” she says. Her calm demeanor helps her navigate the challenges of customer service, even when tensions rise. “Sometimes you have to step back because some people will never be satisfied,” she notes.

Outside of work, Fay enjoys gardening and motorcycle rides through the scenic landscapes of the region. “There are so many beautiful roads,” she shares, emphasizing her love for exploring the outdoors.

As a dedicated community member, Wendy Fay remains a familiar and friendly face at Price Chopper, illustrating the importance of personal connections in local businesses. Her journey from a Navy veteran to a cherished figure in Great Barrington serves as a testament to her resilience and commitment to her community.