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Dec 9, 2025
Texas Business Leader and Philanthropist Thomas O. Hicks Passes Away at Age 79
North Texas Daily
DALLAS, Dec. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Thomas O. Hicks, legendary Texas businessman, philanthropist, mentor, and devoted husband and father, died peacefully yesterday in Dallas surrounded by his family. He was 79.
Hicks was widely regarded as a pioneer in American business, reshaping private equity and introducing strategies that influenced an entire generation of investors. He co-founded Hicks & Haas in 1984, where he executed landmark deals including the transformative Dr Pepper/7UP merger. He later co-founded Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst in 1989, which grew into one of the largest private equity platforms of its era, completing major transactions across consumer products, broadcasting, and food and beverage.
More importantly, Hicks was known for his integrity, generosity, and loyalty in business -- qualities that shaped every partnership he formed and every life he touched. Longtime friend and peer in Dallas's business community Richard Fisher reflected on this spirit, saying, "Tom Hicks was a legend in finance who perfected the leveraged buyout and pioneered the 'buy and build' strategy by creating one of the world's largest beverage companies. Best of all, he was a devoted, constant friend who supported me with gusto when I ran for the U.S. Senate, even though we were from different parties. A man is measured by his affection for and unflinching support of family and friends. At this, Tom was a true champion."
Hicks's influence extended well beyond business. A passionate sports fan, he owned and chaired the Dallas Stars from 1995-2011, guiding the club to multiple division titles, two Presidents' Trophies, and the 1999 Stanley Cup Championship. He also owned the Texas Rangers from 1998-2010, leading the team to three American West Division titles and a World Series appearance. In 2007, he acquired a 50% stake in Liverpool F.C., making him one of the few individuals to hold simultaneous ownership across NHL, MLB, and Premier League organizations.
"Tom was a close
