Ann Walton Kroenke is, indirectly, an heir to part of the Wal-Mart fortune. Kroenke inherited stock from father, Bud Walton (d. 1995), who was an early business partner and brother of Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton.
Walton stated, "Each Wal-Mart store should reflect the values of its customers and support the vision they hold for their community." Wal-Mart has outreach programs led by local associates who grew up in the area and understand the needs of the local community.
Rob Walton succeeded his father as the Chairman of the Board of Wal-Mart, and John was a director in the company until his death in a 2005 plane crash.
AnnKroenke and Nancy Laurie, two daughters of Sam's brother, Bud Walton, hold smaller shares in the company and are also billionaires in their own right.