Chick-fil-A Founder S. Truett Cathy Dies at Age 93

Carrie Dedrick | Updated: Sep 08, 2014

Chick-fil-A Founder S. Truett Cathy Dies at Age 93

Chick fil-A founded S. Truett Cathy died early Monday morning (Sept. 8). Cathy was 93 years old. 

Cathy introduced the first Chick-fil-A restaurant in Atlanta in 1967. His restaurant boasted a boneless chicken sandwich that Cathy is credited with inventing reports Fox News. Chick-fil-A’s business boomed, prompting an expansion to over 1,800 stores in 39 states and Washington, D.C. 

The founder of the popular fast food chain was well-known for his conservative religious views. All Chick-fil-A restaurants are closed on Sundays to allow employees to attend church and rest. And in 2012, the restaurant received attention for promoting biblical marriage, though Cathy’s son, Dan Cathy, was running the business at the time. 

Truett Cathy authored several books including “How Did You Do It, Truett?” in 2007 about his business success. In regard to his book he said then, "There's really no secret for success. I hope it will open eyes for people. They don't have to follow my recipe but this is what works for me."

Dan Cathy remains the Chick-fil-A chairman and president. The Cathy family previously signed a contract with Truett Cathy agreeing that the company must stay privately owned, even if it would be sold. There are currently no plans of selling the business.

Publication date: September 8, 2014



Chick-fil-A Founder S. Truett Cathy Dies at Age 93