Feltner’s Whatta-Burger family-owned Russellville business now searching for new owners to continue legacy

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – The family and current owners of Feltner’s Whatta-Burger say they are facing their hardest decision concerning the business.

Missy Feltner Ellis and her husband Randy Ellis have run the family business to keep Missy’s father, Robert “Bob” Feltner’s legacy alive and continue the tradition of passing it down.

“All of the kids and grandkids went their separate ways, so there’s nobody to take it on,” Missy said.

Missy began working under her father when she was young, “learning from the best.”

“My dad taught me a lot, he was very kind, very gentle, and always giving to a community, schools, and Arkansas Tech,” Missy said.

Missy has worked hard to keep the legacy that her father established in 1967 on Thanksgiving Day going strong.

She recalls how the business began after her father sat in a lawn chair counting cars that went by on the dirt road and how it has grown, with traffic lights and all.

“In order for us to retire and have a few years together without being down here we will have to sell,” Missy said.

Missy and Randy say they are looking for kind-hearted people to keep the traditions of Feltner’s Whatta-Burger alive.

“That’s what we are hoping for, someone that will run it the way it’s being run right now,” Missy said.

She said that while people have shown interest, nothing is set in stone.

The hardest part of it all was telling the crew.

“They are like family, dad always said treat the employees like family so that’s what we try to do,” Missy said.

One employee, Savannah Fitzhugh, says her only wish is that the new owners keep the place thriving.

The couple says that Feltner’s Whatta-Burger will remain open seven days a week, at normal hours, and invites people to eat.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLRT - FOX16.com.