Jim Ukrop, Richmond’s Grocery Pioneer and Civic Architect, Dies at 89

Key points

• James E. 'Jim' Ukrop died on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the age of 89.
• He was the eldest son of Joseph and Jacquelin Ukrop, who founded the grocery chain in 1937 as a small market on Hull Street.
• Jim Ukrop joined the business in 1960, opened a second store, and became CEO in 1974.
• The Ukrop family sold 25 supermarkets to Martin’s Food Markets in 2010, ending nearly 75 years in the retail grocery business.
• Ukrop was a major philanthropist, donating tens of millions of dollars to non-profits, schools, and arts groups, including the Greater Richmond Chamber and Richmond Public Schools.
• He was a board member of the College of William & Mary and a key figure in the development of Richmond CenterStage and the Richmond Business Community.

Background

Jim Ukrop’s legacy extends beyond his grocery empire. He was a pivotal figure in Richmond’s civic and economic development, championing downtown revitalization, the Richmond Folk Festival, and local entrepreneurship. His philanthropy included significant contributions to the Richmond Public Schools, the Greater Richmond Chamber, and various arts and sports programs. He was also closely associated with Richmond traditions, including the Monument Avenue and the Richmond Christmas Parade. His influence on the city’s business climate and community spirit was widely recognized, with former director of the Valentine Richmond History Center describing him as someone who 'set the standards for the business climate in Richmond in many ways.'

How outlets are covering it

The Richmond Times-Dispatch and WWBT both highlight Ukrop’s role as a business and civic leader, but they emphasize different aspects of his legacy. The Times-Dispatch focuses on his philanthropic contributions, his involvement in local organizations, and his impact on the next generation of entrepreneurs. WWBT, on the other hand, emphasizes his role in the growth of the grocery chain and his influence on Richmond’s development, quoting Virginia leaders who praised him as a 'visionary' and a 'true business and civic leader.' Both outlets agree on his significance to Richmond and Virginia, but the Times-Dispatch provides more detail on his philanthropic efforts and community involvement, while WWBT focuses on his business achievements and the reactions of local leaders.

Why it matters

Jim Ukrop’s death marks the end of an era for Richmond’s business and civic landscape. His contributions to the city’s development, from the growth of Ukrop’s Super Markets to his philanthropic efforts and involvement in local organizations, have left a lasting impact on Richmond and Virginia. His legacy as a business and civic leader will continue to influence the city’s future, and his contributions to the community will be remembered for generations to come.

What to watch

The Richmond community will likely hold memorial services and events to honor Jim Ukrop’s legacy. His family and friends will continue to support the organizations and causes he championed, ensuring that his contributions to the community are remembered and celebrated. The Richmond Times-Dispatch and WWBT will likely continue to cover the reactions of local leaders and the community to his passing, highlighting his impact on Richmond and Virginia.