A family-owned business built on perseverance, opportunity and community connection is continuing to make its mark in Jones County.
Marco’s Pizza, located at 198 W. Clinton Street in Gray, opened its doors in June 2023, expanding from a successful operation in Madison that was purchased by Ryan Terry in the fall of 2019.
Terry’s path to business ownership was anything but traditional. Before entering the restaurant industry, he worked as a teacher at Walnut Grove High School and coached basketball. While he enjoyed education, he felt called to build something of his own. After researching franchise opportunities, he learned the Marco’s Pizza location in Madison was struggling and potentially available for purchase. With encouragement from his brother Kyle, who reviewed the business’s financials, Terry decided to take the leap into entrepreneurship.
The decision proved to be a turning point. Soon after the purchase, a competing pizza restaurant closed, and when the COVID-19 pandemic arrived, demand for takeout and delivery surged. Sales increased dramatically, helping establish a strong foundation for the business.
The family aspect of the operation became even more important during that period. Terry’s sister, Katie Mahaffey, joined the business during a difficult chapter in her life. Initially working as a delivery driver, she stepped into a leadership role when the restaurant’s general manager unexpectedly left. Mahaffey learned every aspect of the business while helping keep operations running during a period of rapid growth.
“Looking back, it’s what saved me,” Mahaffey said. “It was such a dark season — full of so much grief. But Marco’s gave me purpose when I don’t think I would have found it otherwise.”
As the Madison store continued to thrive, Terry began looking for expansion opportunities. Jones County caught his attention because of its similarities to Morgan County and because the area did not yet have a Marco’s Pizza location. That research led to the opening of the Gray restaurant in 2023.
Today, Terry and Mahaffey are working together to build the Gray location’s presence within the community. Mahaffey recently took on a marketing role for the restaurant and is focused on helping the business connect with local residents and organizations.
Marco’s Pizza offers dine-in, carryout and delivery services. The restaurant also features a dining room that can be reserved for meetings and parties, with seating for approximately 45 guests, as well as an outdoor patio area.
The Gray location is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. until midnight.
Terry and Mahaffey believe the restaurant’s future in Jones County is bright.
“It’s going to be a big year,” Mahaffey said. “For the first time in years, I know I’m right where I’m supposed to be. I’m not just hopeful, I’m expectant. And that’s exciting.”
