Coming from a family of pharmacists, longtime Fort Stockton resident Mario Juarez knew the career path he wanted to go down since he was a teenager.

The El Paso native began his career in pharmacy as a clerk at the age of 16. Juarez received his degree in pharmacy from the University of Texas in 1984 and eight years later he began to live out his dream.

“I had an uncle that was my mentor, he was a pharmacist. I had a great uncle that was a pharmacist and a cousin as well.” Juarez said. “They were all positive influences for me.”

Juarez took ownership of Baggett Pharmacy in Fort Stockton in 1992 and ran the business since.

Last Tuesday, the West Texas native officially decided to sell Baggett Pharmacy and retire from his duties as owner of the pharmacy in Fort Stockton.

“I was able to live my dream. I was fortunate and blessed,” he said. “I think you get to a point when there are other priorities, obviously my family.”

Juarez thanked his longtime Certified Pharmacy Technician Cris Baeza and office manager Laura Ramos for playing a large role in helping Baggett Pharmacy succeed over the years.

“Them two were my foundation,” Juarez said.

Juarez will continue his president duties at City Drug Pharmacy in Alpine and provide aid to area pharmacists if need be.

Baggett Pharmacy is now owned by Shashwat Patel, who started Stockton Pharmacy in 2014 and has been owner of the business since.

“I had ambition to be a multi-store owner and provide good service to the community. It’s perfect timing because I stayed in touch with Mario.”

Patel officially became the owner on June 14 and the East Texas native said that he plans to continue to provide exceptional service.

“During this transition I respectfully ask our customers to be patient. Customers are our No. 1 priority and will do our best to bring the same dependable service as they have always received.”

Patel added that he plans to keep Stockton Pharmacy and Baggett Pharmacy separate businesses moving forward.