Bill’s Pastry Shop Returns to Lynchburg

When Bill’s Pastry Shop in Lynchburg closed last year, it was the end of an era – enough knowing that the original “Bill” hadn’t owned it in years. But, that all changed once again two months ago when Irene and Truman Miller re-opened the successful bakery and fired up the ovens once again.

“We’re using all of Bill’s original recipes,” Irene said during a busy Tuesday morning rush to refill all the empty shelves.

Donuts, pies, handmade cakes, cinnamon rolls, breads and fantastic cream puffs are just part of what Irene and Truman churn out every day. They also have fresh granola, peanut brittle and lots of specialty items.

“We’re still working on what we’re going to carry,” Irene said. “We need customer input and we’ve been adjusting to what the customers what us to carry.”

This isn’t the Truman’s first venture into baking. They operated a wholesale bakery business from their home for two years. Many of their baked products are available at local markets.

“I got started when I bought some chickens a few years ago for the brown eggs,” Irene explained. “In a short while, I had too many eggs, so I sold them at Amherst Milling. They suggested I make some breads and that’s how I got started.”

Truman owned a contracting business, but the economy stalled and he found more time to help develop to the baking business. When Bill’s Pastry Shop became available, it seemed like divine providence led them there.

“We looked at opening a bakery in several other places, but there always seemed to be something that held it up…this place just worked,” Irene said. “I thank God every day for doing what He wants us to do.”

Business was slow at first, but is picking up as more people learn that the pastry shop is back in business.

“Lynchburg people have been very gracious and patient with us as we settle in and improve our line of products,” she said.

Donuts have been a special challenge. “We’re still working on mastering the donut,” she said. “They are pretty good and very popular.”

Her favorite is the angel cream with chocolate icing – although the glazed donuts still appear to be the most popular. The donut case is set up in two self-serve cases, and can be purchases individually or in bulk. They can also fill special orders with advanced notice.

“We want to make the whole customer experience easy,” she said. “By letting customers serve themselves, they can pick what they want and move to the counter. It’s quick.”

An ever-changing selection of handmade two-tier cakes is always available as well. Special decorated cakes are available by special order and made by Brenda’s Cakes.

“She does a great job and they look and taste just wonderful,” Irene said.

The kitchen area is bustling with activity, thanks in part to the help of her seven children – each of which has a role in the store. Some make donuts, others decorate, clean or sort ingredients. One son even helps by assembling donut boxes for the front counter.

“It’s definitely a family business,” she said. “I’m just happy to be where God wants to put me.”

Bill’s Pastry Shop – officially called The Sunny Kitchen – is open Tuesday thru Friday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Visit them at 414 Bay St., Lynchburg or call 434-528-8585. They are also available on Facebook.


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