Richmonders remember the life and legacy of Jim Ukrop
Richmonders from all walks of life shared their memories of Jim Ukrop, who died Friday evening at the age of 89.
The Richmonder invites those who knew him or were impacted by him to share their stories at news@richmonder.org.
Graham Moomaw
Mayor Danny Avula
"This weekend, Richmond lost an incredible leader, laborer and friend. Jim Ukrop's influence on the greater Richmond community has been profound.
"At a time when many business leaders found it easier to disengage from the city and its issues, Jim believed deeply in the importance of Richmond, and poured his time, energy and resources into charting its course for the future."
Eric Walters, co-founder, Ellwood Thompson's
"Jim always took my call and was incredibly helpful with his time and advice. He could have just blown me off since I was sort of a competitor, but he never did.
"I called once with a vexing situation and he confirmed we were doing the right things and to just keep moving forward. I will always remember his kindness and helpfulness."
A.J. Hostetler
"In the run-up to Christmas, I was in a long checkout line at Ukrops. Jim Ukrop was bagging customer groceries.
"Ahead of me in that long line was a young man with a package of shucked corn on the cob. When he finally got to the cashier, he was told that no, he couldn't pay with a credit card (this was the late 90s). He lost his temper, threw down the corn and stalked off in disgust.
"Jim saw what happened and grabbed the corn and ran after the guy. Through the store windows, I could see that he caught up to the guy and gave him the corn. When he returned, he told me that the guy deserved to have a happy holiday dinner."
Barbara Sipe, CEO, United Way of Greater Richmond
"Jim was a trusted advisor to so many of us in the nonprofit community. His passion and philanthropy for education and helping all children thrive has helped countless numbers of young people. We all owe Jim a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid.
"Love and prayers to his family and close friends. Rest in peace, Jim."
Laura Markley, General Partner, New Richmond Ventures
"I had the privilege for working with Jim for more than 10 years at New Richmond Ventures. About a week after I started, he took me to lunch, looked me in the eyes and said, 'There won't be a trailer behind my hearse.'
"I did a confused deer-in-the-headlights stare back and he explained, 'I won't be one of those people that tries to take it all with them. I want to give it away now, to people who need it. That's what this firm is about, finding people and ideas and helping them.'
"He was such a generous and warm-hearted person, who continually found ways to give to both big organizations and individual needs. One of my other favorite memories was when we threw him an 80th birthday party at the office. When we called for a toast he said, 'I pray to God every night to have one more day. I think I can make a difference if I have one more day.' Boy, did he make a difference with every day he had.
Lt. Gov. Ghazala Hashmi
"An iconic figure, a true business and civic leader, Jim has long been one of the most compelling visionaries in Richmond and Virginia. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, innumerable friends, and all his colleagues."
Scott Hammer
“About 20 years ago, I mentioned that I lived on Floyd Avenue.
“When I got into the grocery business, Jim said, ‘My father said to me, 'never take a check from anyone who lives on Floyd Avenue.’ He said it with a smile and a wink, so I knew he was just needling me.
“At least half a dozen times over the next decade or so, I'd run into Jim at one networking event or another. Every time, Jim would say ‘You're that consultant who lives on Floyd Avenue, aren't you? You know when I got into the grocery business…’
“Even though I had moved off Floyd Avenue, I'd always say ‘that's right, Jim, but my checks are good.’
“Jim was a great force for good in our community, and I feel blessed and honored to have known him, if only casually. He will be missed. RIP, Jim.”
