LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WSAZ) – The family of Texas Roadhouse founder and CEO Kent Taylor said on Friday that Taylor committed suicide after a battle with post-COVID-related symptoms.
In a statement, the family said these symptoms include severe ringing (ringing in the ears).
The Louisville-based restaurant said on Thursday that Taylor had died. He founded the company in 1993, which expanded to more than 630 locations in 49 states, including locations in Ashland, Kentucky and Barboursville, West Virginia.
Following is the entire statement released Friday by the family:
“Our community and the restaurant industry lost a legend and the Taylor family lost a wonderful son, father and grandfather this week.
“After a battle with post-Covid related symptoms, including severe tinnitus, Kent Taylor committed suicide this week. Kent fought and fought a lot like the former track champion he was, but the suffering that has intensified a lot in the last few days has become unbearable.
“But in true Kent style, he has always found a silver lining to help others. More recently, he pledged to fund a clinical study to help military personnel who are also suffering from tinnitus.
“Kent leaves an unparalleled legacy as a leader who prioritizes people, which is why he used to say that Texas Roadhouse was a company of people who happened to serve meat. It has changed the lives of hundreds of millions of employees and guests over the past 28 years. He also impacted hundreds of thousands of people through his generous and often anonymous donations.
“Kent created what would become the Texas Roadhouse on a cocktail napkin. He leaves behind a legendary company led by his handpicked Leadership Team, fueled by the passion of Roadies in communities around the world.
“Everyone who met him will miss him a lot and Kent’s direction has always been clear. Happy employees make happy guests.
“We are saddened by the decision Kent felt he needed to make and we want to emphasize more than ever the importance of asking for help if you or someone you love is suffering.
“As Kent used to say, ‘keep it legendary’. “
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