LOUISVILLE, Ky (WSAZ) – The family of Texas Roadhouse founder and CEO Kent Taylor said Friday that Taylor took her own life after a battle with post-COVID symptoms.
In a statement, the family said that these symptoms include severe tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
The Louisville restaurant said Thursday that Taylor was dead. He founded the company in 1993, which has expanded to more than 630 locations in 49 states, including local locations in Ashland, Kentucky and Barboursville, West Virginia.
The following is the full statement released by the family on Friday:
“Our community and the restaurant industry have lost a legend, and the Taylor family has lost a wonderful son, father and grandfather this week.
“After a battle with post-Covid symptoms, including severe tinnitus, Kent Taylor took his own life this week. Kent struggled and fought hard as the former track champion, but the suffering that has intensified greatly in recent days has become unbearable.
“But in the true Kent way, he always found a silver lining to help others. Most recently, he pledged to fund a clinical trial to help members of the military who also suffer from tinnitus.
“Kent leaves an unparalleled legacy as a leader primarily for people, which is why he often said that Texas Roadhouse was a company of people who just happened to serve steaks. It has changed the lives of hundreds of millions of employees and guests over the past 28 years. It has also affected hundreds of thousands of people through its generous and often anonymous donations.
“Kent created the famous what will eventually become Texas Roadhouse on a cocktail napkin. He leaves behind a legendary company led by his hand-selected team of leaders, fueled by the passion of Roadies in communities around the world.
“Everyone who knew 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 had to make and wanted to emphasize more than ever the importance of asking for help if you or someone you love suffers.
“As Kent would so often say, ‘Keep it legendary.’ “
Copyright 2021 WSAZ. All rights reserved.