Tom Hicks died Saturday in Dallas, surrounded by family, a spokesperson said. He was 79.
Hicks was a prominent Texas businessman and private-equity pioneer. He co-founded Hicks & Haas in 1984 and later launched Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst in 1989. Those firms helped reshape leveraged buyouts and the buy-and-build approach in finance.
He also left a mark on sports. Hicks owned the NHL’s Dallas Stars from 1995–2011. Under his watch, the Stars won the Stanley Cup in 1999 and reached the Final again in 2000. He owned Major League Baseball’s Texas Rangers from 1998–2010. The Rangers took three American League West crowns under his leadership and reached the 2010 World Series. In 2007, Hicks acquired a 50 percent stake in Liverpool FC.
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Not every chapter was smooth. The Rangers’ big signing of Álex Rodríguez and struggles to build a sustained contender drew criticism. His and co-owner George Gillett’s time at Liverpool ended amid financial turmoil and a sale in 2010. Still, supporters and peers remembered Hicks for ambition and impact.
Hicks also gave back to Texas. He helped plan the American Airlines Center and supported the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge and education initiatives. He served on the University of Texas board of regents from 1994 to 1999 and helped establish UTIMCO. He served as a paratrooper in the Army Reserves and later as Commissioner of the American Battle Monuments Commission.
He is survived by his wife, Cinda Cree Hicks, six children Thomas Jr., Mack, John, Robert, William and Catherine and 14 grandchildren. “Of everything he accomplished… Tom Hicks’s most cherished title was, ‘Dad,’ ” his children said.
Services are pending. Additional details will be released when arrangements are finalized.
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