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

Key points

• Jim Ukrop died on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the age of 89, according to his family and the College of William & Mary.
• Ukrop joined the family grocery business in 1960 after graduating from William & Mary, eventually becoming president in 1974 and expanding the chain to 29 locations across Central Virginia.
• The Ukrop family sold the supermarket chain to Giant-Carlisle in 2010 for approximately $140 million, after which Ukrop focused on civic initiatives and venture capital.
• Ukrop co-founded New Richmond Ventures to support local startups and was instrumental in the development of the Dominion Energy Center and the Quirk Hotel.
• Richmond Mayor Danny Avula and Virginia Lt. Gov. Ghazala Hashmi praised Ukrop as a visionary leader who remained committed to the city’s growth and social issues.

Background

Ukrop’s death follows a period of significant economic shifts in Richmond, including recent corporate layoffs at CarMax, which affected many local employees. His legacy is often compared to other civic leaders who shaped the city’s modern infrastructure and cultural institutions, such as the Richmond Folk Festival and the Performing Arts Alliance.

How outlets are covering it

While all sources agree on Ukrop’s positive impact, The Richmonder highlights a more complex view, noting that critics sometimes characterized him as a member of the white business elite using wealth to influence city outcomes. In contrast, CBS 6 and WWBT focus primarily on official tributes from political leaders, emphasizing his role as a 'laborer' and 'friend' to the city. The Richmonder also details his personal convictions, such as his feud with Howard Stern over radio content and his opposition to a casino in Richmond, aspects not covered by the other outlets.

Why it matters

Ukrop’s life exemplifies the intersection of business success and civic responsibility in Richmond. His transition from a grocery magnate to a venture capitalist and arts patron illustrates how private wealth can be leveraged for public good, influencing the city’s economic and cultural landscape for decades.

What to watch

The community is expected to continue honoring Ukrop’s legacy through ongoing support for the organizations he championed, including Communities In Schools and the Richmond Performing Arts Alliance. His family will likely continue to support local initiatives, maintaining his commitment to Richmond’s development.