Kingwood Barber Shop is not just a place where men go to get traditional haircuts, owner Larry Skero Jr. said.

Skero Jr., who also serves as pastor at Grace Covenant Baptist Church, said his shop is a place for those who want to kick back in a rustic environment while discussing sports, hunting, religion or politics.

“Our chair is open for discussion,” Skero Jr. said. “We like the people and take on every background, nation, creed and conversation—whether it’s religious or political.”

Kingwood Barbershop, which has been open for 34 years, offers old-fashioned shaves with steamed towels and straight razors in addition to haircuts and beard trims. It is located on Northpark Drive next to Skero’s Furniture and Mattress Center, which is owned by Skero Jr.’s brother Daron and their mother, Annette, and celebrated its 15th anniversary in March.

Skero Jr. attended barber school when he was 19, but his days in the shop of his now-retired father, Larry Skero Sr., started at age 7 when customers were amused by his ability to spit-shine shoes, he said.

“I wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps, just like any young man who admires a dad who blazed a trail,” he said. “Early on, I wanted to work on planes and thought I’d barber part-time, but I’ve stayed here my whole life and made a career out of it.”

Skero Jr. said the traditional barbershop’s success throughout the decades is mainly because of the staff’s relationship with customers.

Although Skero Jr. said he has visited and prayed for customers and their families in their time of need—during illnesses and hospital stays—support goes both ways. The owner said he is grateful for customers who are now offering support for the family as Annette continues to battle stomach and bone cancer.   

“Being a minister and barber in the same town, I’ve married and buried some of my customers and have been there when their children are born; it’s personal,” he said.