Jim Ukrop Obituary, Cause of Death – William & Mary and Richmond Business Leader Dies at 89
James “Jim” E. Ukrop, a visionary businessman, philanthropist, and lifelong champion of William & Mary and the Richmond community, died on September 25, 2026, in Richmond, Virginia. He was 89.
Ukrop is being remembered for a remarkable legacy of leadership that transformed Richmond’s business landscape while leaving an enduring mark on education, athletics, entrepreneurship, and civic life. His passing has prompted tributes from university leaders, business colleagues, former students, and countless members of the community whose lives were shaped by his generosity and service.
Jim Ukrop Cause of Death
The specific cause of death for Jim Ukrop has not been publicly disclosed.
His family announced that he passed away on September 25, 2026, in Richmond at the age of 89. No additional medical details regarding the circumstances of his death have been released.
A Life of Leadership and Service
Born in 1937, Ukrop graduated from William & Mary in 1960 with a degree in business management. During his time at the university, he met Barbara “Bobbie” Berkeley, whom he married shortly after her graduation. Their marriage spanned more than six decades and became the foundation of a family devoted to service and philanthropy.
Throughout his career, Ukrop embodied the values of integrity, excellence, and community. Rather than pursuing recognition, he consistently focused on improving the lives of others through thoughtful leadership and meaningful investment in his hometown.
Building Ukrop’s Super Markets
Alongside his brother, Robert “Bobby” Ukrop, Jim helped expand Ukrop’s Super Markets from a single neighborhood grocery store into one of Virginia’s most admired regional supermarket chains.
Under their leadership, the company grew to 28 stores serving communities across the Richmond area before the business was sold in 2010. Following the sale, Ukrop co-founded New Richmond Ventures (later NRV), supporting innovative startups and helping foster entrepreneurial growth throughout the region.
His influence extended well beyond retail, with investments and mentorship that contributed to Richmond’s continued economic and cultural development.
An Extraordinary Legacy at William & Mary
Few alumni have shaped William & Mary as profoundly as Jim Ukrop.
Over more than 60 years, he served in numerous leadership roles, including the Board of Visitors, the Alumni Association Board, the William & Mary Foundation, and several athletic and business foundations. He also participated in every major comprehensive fundraising campaign undertaken by the university.
His philanthropy touched nearly every corner of campus, including scholarships, the Raymond A. Mason School of Business, Swem Library, the School of Education, humanities initiatives, and William & Mary Athletics.
Among the lasting tributes to his commitment is Ukrop Way, the campus roadway renamed in honor of Jim and Bobbie Ukrop in recognition of their extraordinary support.
Family and Loved Ones
Jim Ukrop is survived by:
- His wife of more than 60 years, Barbara “Bobbie” Berkeley Ukrop
- His brother, Robert “Bobby” Ukrop
- His sons, Scott Ukrop and Ted Ukrop
- Five grandchildren, including Emma Ukrop
- Three great-grandchildren
His family remembers him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend whose greatest joy came from serving others and strengthening the communities he loved.
Richmond and William & Mary Mourn
William & Mary President Katherine A. Rowe described Ukrop as a lifelong innovator whose loyalty and generosity helped shape generations of students and strengthened the university’s future.
University leaders and members of the Richmond community alike have reflected on his unwavering belief that education, entrepreneurship, and compassion could build stronger communities. His influence will continue through the scholarships, programs, institutions, and countless relationships he helped nurture.
Jim Ukrop’s Enduring Legacy
Jim Ukrop leaves behind a legacy measured not simply by business success, but by lives changed through kindness, leadership, and selfless service. From Richmond neighborhoods to the halls of William & Mary, his vision helped create opportunities that will benefit future generations for decades to come.
He will be remembered with gratitude, admiration, and deep affection by his family, friends, colleagues, alumni, and the communities he faithfully served.
Information Disclaimer
This obituary is based on the information provided regarding James “Jim” Ukrop’s passing. His date and place of death, age, family, career, and contributions have been included from the supplied material. A specific cause of death has not been publicly disclosed and should not be assumed unless confirmed by his family or another authoritative source.