Robert Sorrell

BRISTOL, Tenn. — James W. McGlothlin, the influential Southwest Virginia businessman, philanthropist and founder of The Olde Farm and The United Company, has died at the age of 85.

In a message to members of The Olde Farm, the organization announced with “profound and deep sadness” that McGlothlin, its founder and chairman, had passed away.

“Jim’s love for his family, The Olde Farm, The United Company, its employees, and our community ran deep,” the statement read.

Born June 18, 1940, in Buchanan County, Virginia, McGlothlin was the son of the late Woodrow and Sally Ann McGlothlin.

After obtaining is law degree, McGlothlin practiced law with the firm of Street, Street & McGlothlin until 1970. That same year, he co-founded United Coal Company, which grew into a billion-d

See Full Page