LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WSAZ) – Texas Roadhouse founder and CEO Kent Taylor said Friday that Taylor took his own life after a battle with symptoms related to COVID.
In a statement, the family says the symptoms include severe tinnitus (tinnitus).
The Louisville restaurant said Thursday Taylor died. He founded the company in 1993, expanding to more than 630 locations in 49 states, including local locations in Ashland, Kentucky, and Barboursville, West Virginia.
Following is the full statement the family released Friday:
‘Our community and the restaurant industry have 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 took his own life this week. Kent fought and fought hard like the former track champion he was, but the suffering that has increased sharply in recent days has become unbearable.
‘But in true Kent fashion, he always found a silver lining to help others. Recently, he has committed to funding a clinical study to help members of the military who also suffer from tinnitus.
‘Kent leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a nation’s first leader, which is why he often said that Texas Roadhouse was a people’s business that happened to serve steaks. He has changed the lives of hundreds of millions of employees and guests over the past 28 years. He has also influenced hundreds of thousands of people through his generous and often anonymous donations.
Kent became aware of what would eventually become Texas Roadhouse on a cocktail napkin. He leaves behind a legendary venture, led by his hand-picked leadership team fueled by the passion of Roadies in communities around the world.
‘Everyone who knew him would miss him very much and Kent’s direction was always clear. Happy employees make happy guests.
‘We are saddened by the decision Kent felt he had to make and want to emphasize more than ever how important it is to seek help if you or someone you love is suffering.
“As Kent would so often say, ‘keep it legendary. ‘”
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