RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The family of Jim Ukrop is sharing his legacy after his death last week. The eldest son of Ukrop’s Super Markets founders Joe and Jacquelin Ukrop died in Richmond on Friday, Sept. 25, at age 89. In 1937, Jim’s father Joe opened the first Ukrop’s Market at 3111 Hull S t. in South Richmond. In 1960, Jim joined the business full-time. By the end of the 1960s, Ukrop’s had expanded to five stores in South Richmond and Chesterfield County. The chain had grown to 29 locations throughout Central Virginia before it was sold in 2010. (8News)(8News) Jim Ukrop, former leader of Ukrop’s Super Markets, dies at 89 Jim’s oldest son, Scott Ukrop, said his father’s impact on the Greater Richmond area extends beyond the grocery aisles and shows what true customer service is all about. “He was a great father — he had expectations for his sons and was a good role model,” he said. “My grandparents instilled in him the golden rule of treating others as you'd like to be treated. A supermarket is a great place to do that because there's so much customer service and interaction and just every little piece is important.” Scott said his father used his influence as Ukrop's CEO for causes like high-speed rail efforts, affordable housing and schools. He said his strong work ethic and open-door policy are skills he instilled in all his children. Jim Ukrop (Photo: Ukrop family)Jim Ukrop (Photo: Ukrop family) “You've got to execute properly and have fresh produce, fresh meat. But also, if you're associates, the folks working there, not really happy, your customers may not be happy either,” Scott said. “The things that he helped and was involved with will continue to thrive, and that Richmond will continue to attract young families and folks that can make us proud with great institutions and great organizations serving everybody here and a place that people want to live.” Gov. Abigail Spanberger released a statement on X on Saturday, Sept. 26: “Jim Ukrop leaves behind a large legacy of civic leadership and business acumen, and I know he will be profoundly missed by many in Richmond and across Virginia," the statement reads. "He was a steadfast believer in investing in community and public education and worked for many years on revitalizing Richmond. I join so many Virginians in sending thoughts to his family, friends, and the extensive community he leaves behind.” In a post made to Instagram on Saturday, Richmond Mayor Danny Avula said, “Jim poured himself into countless efforts, always helping open doors for others, and has always had a tremendous hand in helping create the growing, vibrant Richmond of today.” ...read more read less