DALLAS — Tom Hicks Dies at 79

Tom Hicks, a notable Texas entrepreneur and philanthropist with ownership ties to two Dallas sports franchises and a soccer team in England, passed away on Saturday. He was 79 years old.

His publicist, Lisa LeMaster, stated that he died peacefully in Dallas with his family by his side.

Hicks was at the helm of the NHL’s Dallas Stars from 1995 until 2011, leading the team to victory in the 1999 Stanley Cup.

He also owned the Texas Rangers in Major League Baseball from 1998 to 2010, during which time the team secured three American League West championships and made it to the World Series.

In 2007, Hicks acquired a 50% stake in the Liverpool soccer club.

Dallas Cowboys owner, Jerry Jones, shared his sentiments, stating, “Sitting alongside him was always about more than a ballpark or stadium. It was about personal respect, trust and friendship. We have gone a long way together, and I will miss him very much. My heart goes out to his family.”

Co-founding Hicks & Haas in 1984, he played a significant role in changing private equity and investment strategies. He was also a member of the University of Texas Board of Trustees from 1994 to 1999.

Texas businessman Ross Perot Jr. commented, “Tom Hicks was an innovative businessman and a private equity pioneer. He combined his business and athletic endeavors through his ownership of the Stars and Rangers.”

Hicks leaves behind his wife of 35 years, Cinda Cree Hicks, and six children: Thomas Orris Hicks, Jr., Mack Hardin Hicks, John Alexander Hicks, Robert Bradley Hicks, William Cree Hicks, and Katherine Forgrave Hicks.

In a joint statement, his children reflected, “Of all the things Tom Hicks accomplished in his remarkable life, the title he cherished most was ‘Dad.’ No matter the challenges he faced, he always showed generosity and love for his family. He remains a guiding force in our family, and while we’re devastated by this loss, we’re deeply grateful to have been his children.”