James “Jim” E. Ukrop, a visionary businessman, philanthropist, and longtime champion of Richmond, Virginia, and the College of William & Mary, has passed away on September 25, 2026, at the age of 89.
Ukrop’s passing was confirmed by his family, though the specific cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. His death marks the end of a remarkable life defined by leadership, service, and an enduring commitment to community development.
Born in 1937, Ukrop graduated from William & Mary in 1960 with a degree in business management. During his time at the university, he met his wife, Barbara “Bobbie” Berkeley, with whom he shared more than six decades of marriage rooted in service and philanthropy.
Alongside his brother, Robert “Bobby” Ukrop, Jim helped grow Ukrop’s Super Markets from a single neighborhood grocery store into one of Virginia’s most respected regional supermarket chains. Under their leadership, the company expanded to 28 stores across the Richmond area before its sale in 2010.
Following the sale, Ukrop co-founded New Richmond Ventures (NRV), continuing his influence in the region by supporting startups and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the community.
His legacy extended deeply into education, particularly at William & Mary, where he served in numerous leadership roles over more than 60 years. These included positions on the Board of Visitors, Alumni Association Board, and the William & Mary Foundation, as well as active participation in major fundraising campaigns.
Ukrop’s philanthropy impacted nearly every part of the university, supporting scholarships, the Raymond A. Mason School of Business, Swem Library, the School of Education, and athletics. In recognition of his contributions, the campus roadway Ukrop Way was named in honor of him and his wife.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara “Bobbie” Berkeley Ukrop; his brother, Robert “Bobby” Ukrop; his sons, Scott Ukrop and Ted Ukrop; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Tributes have poured in from across Richmond and the William & Mary community, with leaders remembering him as a dedicated innovator whose generosity and vision helped shape generations of students and strengthen the fabric of the region.
Jim Ukrop’s legacy will endure not only through his business accomplishments, but through the countless lives he touched, the institutions he strengthened, and the community he helped build.