‘Maverick entrepreneur’ founded Texas Roadhouse
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Kent Taylor, the founder and CEO of the Texas Roadhouse restaurant chain, has died. He was 65. His family and the company said he took his own life Thursday after suffering from symptoms related to COVID-19, including severe tinnitus.
Mr. Taylor’s family and the company Sunday confirmed his death in a statement.
Tinnitus is a common condition involving ringing or other noises in one or both ears. Experts say COVID-19 can exacerbate tinnitus problems.
“Kent battled and fought hard like the former track champion that he was, but the suffering that greatly intensified in recent days became unbearable,” the statement said.
Mr. Taylor recently committed to funding a clinical study to help military members suffering with tinnitus, the statement said.
“Kent leaves an unmatched legacy as a peoplefirst leader, which is why he often said that Texas Roadhouse was a people company that just happened to serve steaks,” the statement said.
Mr. Taylor opened the first Texas Roadhouse restaurant in 1993 in Clarksville, Ind., coming up with the idea on a cocktail napkin. Texas Roadhouse now operates 610 restaurants in 49 states and 10 other countries and is based in Mr. Taylor’s hometown of Louisville, Ky.
“Kent’s kind and generous spirit was his constant driving force whether it was quietly helping a friend or building one of America’s great companies in @texasroadhouse,” Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer tweeted. “He was a maverick entrepreneur who embodied the values of never giving up and putting others first.”
Mr. Taylor, who died Thursday, is survived by his parents, Powell and Marilyn Taylor; three children; and five grandchildren. Texas Roadhouse spokesman Travis Doster said a small private service is planned this week.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800- 273- TALK (8255). You can also text a crisis counselor at 741741.