West Virginia Businessman Ike Morris Dies
The prominent entrepreneur owned Waco Oil & Gas and several regional Foodland grocery stores.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Openings & Closings
West Virginia businessman Ike Morris has died, leaving behind a diverse legacy of investments across the state. His portfolio spanned industries including coal mining, stone quarries, fitness centers, and real estate.
Why it matters
Morris was a significant figure in the West Virginia economy and a recognized member of the WVU Business School Hall of Fame. His passing marks the loss of a major local employer and investor whose influence reached several industries.
Waco Foods LLC, a firm owned by Morris, currently operates Foodland grocery store locations in Glenville, Grantsville, and Craigsville.
The players
Ike Morris
He was a prominent West Virginia businessman and owner of Waco Oil & Gas Co., Inc. and Waco Foods LLC.
Rich Rodriguez
He is a college football coach who shared a 36-year friendship with Morris after they met at Glenville State.
The details
Beyond his energy sector work, Morris maintained a broad corporate footprint that included hospitality and fitness ventures. His career was marked by his induction into the West Virginia University Business School Hall of Fame, recognizing his extensive contributions to the state's commercial landscape.
Timeline
In 1990, Ike Morris befriended Rich Rodriguez while at Glenville State.
On October 20, 2026, Rich Rodriguez released a public statement following Morris's death.
Market Landscape
Morris was a member of the WVU Business School Hall of Fame, an institution that catalogs the state's most impactful economic leaders. His career highlights the consolidation of local businesses across sectors ranging from energy to retail in West Virginia.
Residents in Glenville, Grantsville, and Craigsville may see changes regarding the local Foodland stores owned by Morris's company. Customers and employees should watch for updates on the future ownership or potential transitions of these essential community retailers.
The takeaway
The legacy of Ike Morris serves as a reminder of the impact individual entrepreneurs have on rural state economies. His diverse investment strategy illustrates how small-state business leaders often weave their interests into the fabric of daily community life.
Further reading
For more news on regional business shifts, visit the West Virginia Openings & Closings section.
