John’s Pharmacy to continue key drugs legacy as owner retires

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo., (KBSI) — After decades of service to the community, Key Drugs owner Marty Michel, R.Ph., MBA, CDE, has announced his retirement.

To ensure continued hometown care, John’s Pharmacy — a family-owned and locally operated pharmacy serving southeast Missouri for more than 35 years — will assume ownership and operations of Key Drugs effective Dec. 1, 2025.

The Key Drugs location at 910 N. Westwood Blvd. will close at the end of business on Nov. 29, 2025. All patient prescription records will be securely transferred to John’s Pharmacy at 909 W. Pine St. in Poplar Bluff. The transition is designed to be seamless, and patients will not need to take any action.

The change unites two long-standing independent pharmacies with a shared commitment to personal service and community values.

Marty and his wife, Julita, expressed gratitude to their loyal customers.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the health needs of our neighbors for so many years,” Michel said.

“My father, Ken Michel, started this pharmacy in 1962. I have been working as a pharmacist at Key Drugs for over 42 years. I’m proud of the relationships we’ve built and the care we’ve provided. I have full confidence that John’s Pharmacy shares our values and will continue to be a pillar of support for everyone.”

John’s Pharmacy owner Abe Funk, PharmD, said his team is honored to continue Key Drugs’ legacy.

“Key Drugs has a long-standing reputation for serving Poplar Bluff with excellence,” Funk said. “Our goal is to ensure a smooth transition while continuing the friendly, community-centered service both pharmacies are known for. Independent pharmacies play a vital role in advocating for patients—especially in rural communities—where access to affordable healthcare and medication can be challenging. We’re committed to being that trusted, accessible resource for our neighbors.”

John’s Pharmacy operates retail locations in Poplar Bluff, Cape Girardeau, Altenburg, and Puxico.

The addition of Key Drugs strengthens operations through shared resources, expanded services, and continued growth.

John’s RX also provides long-term care pharmacy services from its locations in Cape Girardeau and Farmington, reflecting the company’s dedication to improving access to care across the region.

Key Drugs patients can expect a full range of services from John’s Pharmacy, including prescription management, over-the-counter medications, compounding, immunizations, medication synchronization, and durable medical equipment.

Patients will also have access to free local delivery and a drive-thru window.

More information about the transition is available at Welcome Key Drugs Patients – John’s Pharmacy.