HONORING JAMES E. "JIM" UKROP

On 2026-10-05, Representative Robert J. Wittman (R-VA-1) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING JAMES E. "JIM" UKROP" in the House.

HONORING JAMES E. "JIM" UKROP

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 157 (Monday, October 5, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 157 (Monday, October 5, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1013] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING JAMES E. ``JIM'' UKROP ______ HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Monday, October 5, 2026 Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the incredible life of Mr. James E. ``Jim'' Ukrop, a cherished member of the Richmond community. He was a shining example of what it meant to be a businessman, philanthropist, servant leader, and Virginian. Jim earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from William & Mary and began helping his family run Ukrop's Supermarket. Alongside his brother Bobby, he helped grow the family business from one store to over two dozen locations across Virginia. Their stores were known for incredible customer service, even carrying patrons' groceries to their cars. For Jim and his family, it was all about treating others the way you would want to be treated. In December of 2009, the family announced it would sell its 25 supermarkets to Giant- Carlisle. However, Jim's service didn't stop with this sale but rather took on a new form. After the sale, he created New Richmond Ventures, a venture capital firm that raised money for local startup businesses. Jim cared deeply about the Richmond area, its community members, and young entrepreneurs to whom he was devoted to helping. Jim was also a proud and dedicated William & Mary alumnus, serving as a secretary of the William & Mary Board of Visitors, as president of the Alumni Association Board, and as a member of the William & Mary Foundation. Additionally, he was awarded the Alumni Medallion in 1981, the highest honor given by the Alumni Association. Jim generously gave his time, talent, and resources. He was known throughout the William & Mary community for his optimism, pragmatism, and unwavering focus on excellence. His life was nothing short of extraordinary and he represented the values that make our Commonwealth so great. He spent his life serving others and worked alongside fellow Virginians to make his hometown a better place. Jim's joyful attitude, generosity, and kind spirit will truly be missed. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues join me in honoring and celebrating the life of Mr. James E. ``Jim'' Ukrop. I pray for his eternal peace and strength for his loved ones during this time. ____________________