Brookshire Grocery Company CEO Brad Brookshire Retires After 49-Year Career

Longtime executive steps down, COO Jerry LeClair named interim CEO

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Brad Brookshire, chairman and CEO of Brookshire Grocery Company, has retired after a 49-year career with the family-owned regional grocery chain. Jerry LeClair, the company's chief operating officer, will assume the role of interim CEO.

Why it matters

Brookshire's retirement marks the end of an era for the nearly century-old Brookshire Grocery Company, which has grown significantly under his leadership as CEO over the past decade. The transition to new leadership comes as the company navigates a shifting grocery landscape and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The details

Brookshire, the grandson of company founder W.T. Brookshire, served the company for 49 years, including 20 years as chairman of the board and 10 years as CEO. Under his leadership, BGC expanded its store count, strengthened its culture of innovation and customer service, and deepened its commitment to the communities it serves across Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma.

  • Brad Brookshire retired on March 2, 2026 after a 49-year career with Brookshire Grocery Company.
  • Jerry LeClair assumed the role of interim CEO on March 2, 2026.

The players

Brad Brookshire

The retiring chairman and CEO of Brookshire Grocery Company, who served the family-owned regional grocery chain for 49 years.

Jerry LeClair

The chief operating officer of Brookshire Grocery Company, who will assume the role of interim CEO following Brookshire's retirement.

W.T. Brookshire

The founder of Brookshire Grocery Company, which has been a family-owned regional grocery chain since 1928.

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What they’re saying

“From growing up in this company and watching my grandfather lead the company, to stepping into the shoes myself, it has been the greatest honor to be chairman and CEO of Brookshire Grocery Company.”

— Brad Brookshire, Retiring Chairman and CEO (tylerpaper.com)

“Brad's leadership has shaped BGC in profound and lasting ways. He has led with integrity, humility, and a genuine care for people, ensuring that BGC continues to thrive while honoring the company's heritage. Brad strengthened the foundation laid by our company founder and we are determined to continue his legacy.”

— Jerry LeClair, Interim CEO (tylerpaper.com)

What’s next

Brookshire Grocery Company will hold a celebration event later this spring to honor Brad Brookshire's years of service and commemorate his retirement.

The takeaway

The retirement of long-time Brookshire Grocery Company CEO Brad Brookshire marks a significant transition for the nearly century-old family-owned regional grocery chain, which has grown significantly under his leadership. The company is poised to continue honoring its heritage and serving its communities under the interim leadership of COO Jerry LeClair.