RICHMOND, Va. — Jack Pollard, known by many as “The Peanut Man” died on September 16, according to family members. Pollard, 71, owned The Peanut Shoppe on Broad Street in the 1970s and later The Peanut Store in eastern Henrico.
“At a very early age, Jack became aware of his entrepreneurial gifts, and dreamed to be his own boss. Before Jack was a teenager, he was known for dressing in business attire, white dress shirt and tie,” an obituary provided by Pollard’s family indicated. “Jack worked for Planter’s Peanuts at a very young age. His work ethics, professionalism and integrity quickly excelled him to store manager.”
Jack Pollard (PHOTO: Pollard family)
Jack, along with his wife Phyllis, later obtained the store and renamed it The Peanut Shoppe.
“The success of the Broad Street location helped the couple purchase two additional locations,” family member said. “Jack took great pride in roasting fresh peanuts daily.”
In addition to caring for his family and business, Pollard gave back to the community.
Jack Pollard (PHOTO: Pollard family)
“For over 15 years, Jack provided the members of the Henrico CONNECT Program, a youth afterschool program, with their first jobs. Many of those teenagers remained employed by The Peanut Store their entire high school career,” family member said. “Jack also contributed to numerous organizations and initiatives that supported locally owned and/or minority owned businesses. He personally mentored new and/or upcoming entrepreneurs.”
Jack was active in his church, Victorious Living Christian Center, and enjoyed gardening, fishing, coin collecting and meal time with his family.
“Jack worked seven days a week until his final month with us,” family member said. Jack will be remembered for his wisdom, generosity, sense of humor, and straight talk. When he was pleased with the actions of a friend, he would playfully tell them, ‘I don’t care what they say about you, but you are alright with me.'”
Jack Pollard is survived by his devoted wife, Phyllis B. Pollard; loving children Jacqueline D. Pollard, and Daryl T. Pollard (Nina); five grandchildren, Natasha Pollard, Terrell Pollard, Brent Bowie(Nadia), Jah-Liyl Pollard and Nah-Jah Pollard; one great-grandson, Justin Bowie; caring siblings, Mary Brevard, and William Johnson; three brother-in-laws; including a devoted brother-in-law, Randy Blakey (Carolyn); one sister-in-law, Renee Blakey; a host of nieces and nephews, a list of steadfast friends; and loyal customers.
