BRISTOL — Businessman, philanthropist, William & Mary alum and university supporter James W. “Jim” McGlothlin passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 6, at his home in Bristol.
McGlothlin was born on June 18, 1940, in Buchanan County, the son of the late Woodrow and Sally Ann McGlothlin, and attended William & Mary, graduating with a degree in psychology in 1962 and a law degree from Marshall Wythe School of Law in 1964.
According to a William & Mary biography, returning to his hometown of Grundy, he practiced law until 1970, when he became Founding Partner of United Coal Company. Later merged into The United Company, for four decades, he served as the Chairman/CEO of the company and its many subsidiaries. According to local media reports, he is credited with being a pivotal player in bringing a Hard Rock Casino to Bristol.
He also served as a director on several boards, including CSX Corporation, Bassett Furniture, Dominion Bankshares and Star Oil & Gas. After retiring, he dedicated his time to business activities and philanthropy, serving on the Board of Directors of Mountain Mission School in his hometown of Grundy, The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the PGA Tour, and he was a National Trustee of First Tee.
At William & Mary, he served two terms on the Board of Visitors, and William & Mary President Katherine A. Rowe highlighted his contributions across campus in the form of scholarships, teaching awards, and capital projects in athletics, business and law. In 2011, he and his wife, Fran, also a William & Mary graduate, established the McGlothlin Leadership Forum, and in 2015, the McGlothlin Leadership Scholars program.
“A distinguished William & Mary alumnus and innovator in business and law, Mr. McGlothlin sought to advance prosperity throughout the Commonwealth. At his alma mater, Mr. McGlothlin served two terms on the Board of Visitors. Deeply committed to the success of others, he launched scores of talented students on their professional pathways,” said Rowe.
“In recognition of his commitment to future generations, William & Mary conferred on Mr. McGlothlin our most cherished honors, including an honorary doctorate of laws, our alumni medallion — the William & Mary Alumni Association’s highest award — and the prestigious Citizen-Lawyer Award from the Law School,” Rowe added. “William & Mary joins our Commonwealth and nation in mourning Mr. McGlothlin’s passing. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mrs. McGlothlin, a cherished alumna and friend, and to their family. Mr. McGlothlin’s legacy will lift up aspiring leaders.”
Gov. Glenn Youngkin also issued a statement Wednesday on McGlothlin’s passing.
“Our hearts are heavy today. Jim McGlothlin’s legacy will forever be felt across Southwest Virginia and the entire Commonwealth,” said Youngkin. “Coming from humble beginnings and rising to a titan of industry, Jim embodied the American dream. Alongside his wife Fran, they used that success to dedicate their time and treasure to changing the lives of countless Virginians.”
“Their commitment to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts enriches the culture of our Commonwealth. Their support for the Mountain Mission School in Grundy provided a beacon of hope to generations of children. Their support for William & Mary and VCU Health enables students to reach their dreams and have a daily impact on patient care and medical training,” Youngkin continued. “Our prayers are with Fran and the entire family during this difficult time. We will remember Jim with great fondness, and we will see the impact of his amazing life journey continue to inspire Virginians for generations.”
