S. Truett Cathy

$6.20 B

Ranked #224 in World

About S. Truett Cathy

Samuel Truett Cathy, the founder of Chick-fil-A, was born on March 14, 1921, in Eatonton, Georgia, and passed away on September 8, 2014. A veteran of World War II, Cathy inaugurated the fast-food chain in 1946 with the original Dwarf Grill in Hapeville, Georgia. Alongside his brother Ben, he developed the distinctive chicken sandwich, propelling the brand's success to the opening of the first standalone Chick-fil-A in Atlanta's Greenbriar Mall in 1967. Guided by his faith, Cathy ensured all outlets remained closed on Sundays, a testament to his dedication to family and religious values. An influential philanthropist, he established the WinShape Foundation and was honored with numerous awards, including the William E. Simon Prize for Philanthropic Leadership in 2008 and multiple honorary doctorates. Cathy's legacy in the business and philanthropy sectors endures through his written works and the continued success of Chick-fil-A under his son, Dan Cathy's leadership.

Born

March 14, 1921 in Eatonton, Georgia, U.S.

Died

September 08, 2014 (aged 93)

Source Of Wealth

Chick-fil-A

Citizenship

United States

Education

Diploma, High School

Spouse

Jeannette McNeil Cathy

Children

Bubba

Samuel Truett Cathy, the founder of Chick-fil-A, was born on March 14, 1921, in Eatonton, Georgia. He attended Boys High School (now Midtown High School) in Atlanta. During World War II, Cathy served in the United States Army.

S. Truett Cathy: Family

Cathy was married to Jeannette McNeil Cathy for over 60 years until her passing in 2010. Together, they raised three children: Dan Cathy, Don Cathy, and Trudy Cathy White.

S. Truett Cathy: Career Highlights

In 1946, Cathy founded Chick-fil-A with the Dwarf Grill in Hapeville, Georgia. He created the signature chicken sandwich with his brother Ben. From 1964 to 1967, Cathy licensed the sandwich to over 50 eateries. In 1967, he opened the first standalone Chick-fil-A at Greenbriar Mall in Atlanta. Cathy retired as chairman and CEO of Chick-fil-A in November 2013, succeeded by his son Dan Cathy.

S. Truett Cathy: Companies

Cathy founded and led Chick-fil-A, a fast-food restaurant chain known for its chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. The company has grown to over 2,500 locations worldwide.

S. Truett Cathy: Major Achievements

Under Cathy's leadership, Chick-fil-A became one of the most successful fast-food chains in the United States. He was also instrumental in establishing the WinShape Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships and support to children in need.

S. Truett Cathy: Awards & Achievements

Cathy received numerous honors and awards throughout his career, including the Laurel Crowned Circle Award from Omicron Delta Kappa, induction into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame, and recognition by Forbes magazine as one of the wealthiest individuals in America. He was also bestowed with the President's Call to Service Award by President George W. Bush in 2008 and inducted as a Georgia Trustee in 2013.

S. Truett Cathy: Personal Life & Legacy

Cathy was a devout Christian and actively involved in his local church. He taught Sunday school to teenagers at First Baptist Church of Jonesboro, Georgia, for over 50 years.

Cathy was guided by the Bible, emphasizing the importance of faith and family. All Chick-fil-A locations are closed on Sundays to allow employees to attend church and spend time with their families.

S. Truett Cathy: Trivia

Cathy was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing the piano. He also wrote several books on success, leadership, and faith, including "Eat Mor Chikin: Inspire More People," "It's Easier to Succeed Than to Fail," and "It's Better to Build Boys Than Mend Men."

Wealth History

Timeline

March 14, 1921

Samuel Truett Cathy is born in Eatonton, Georgia.

1946

Cathy founds Chick-fil-A with the Dwarf Grill in Hapeville, Georgia.

1964-1967

Cathy licenses the signature chicken sandwich to over 50 eateries.

1967

The first standalone Chick-fil-A opens at Greenbriar Mall in Atlanta.

November 2013

Cathy retires as chairman and CEO of Chick-fil-A, succeeded by his son Dan Cathy.

September 8, 2014

Cathy passes away at the age of 93 due to diabetic complications.

S. Truett Cathy : FAQs

What is S. Truett Cathy's net worth?

As of 2014, S. Truett Cathy's net worth was $6.20 billion.

What are S. Truett Cathy's main sources of wealth?

S. Truett Cathy's main source of income comes from Chick-fil-A.

What is S. Truett Cathy educational background?

S. Truett Cathy holds a Diploma from High School.

Is S. Truett Cathy dead?

Yes, S. Truett Cathy died on September 08, 2014 (aged 93).

How many children does S. Truett Cathy have?

S. Truett Cathy has 3 children.

What is the history behind Chick-fil-A's foundation by Samuel Truett Cathy?

Chick-fil-A was founded by Samuel Truett Cathy in 1946 with the establishment of the Dwarf Grill in Hapeville, Georgia. He created the signature chicken sandwich alongside his brother Ben, which led to the expansion of Chick-fil-A into over 50 eateries from 1964 to 1967 before opening its first standalone location in 1967 at Greenbriar Mall, Atlanta.

How did Samuel Truett Cathy's beliefs influence Chick-fil-A's operations?

Samuel Truett Cathy's Christian beliefs profoundly influenced Chick-fil-A, particularly his decision to close all restaurant locations on Sundays. This policy allowed employees to attend church and spend time with their families, reflecting his emphasis on faith and family values.

What contributions did Samuel Truett Cathy make toward philanthropy and community service?

Samuel Truett Cathy was deeply involved in philanthropy, establishing the WinShape Foundation in 1984 to shape winners, fostering children for over 30 years, and closely supporting the Chick-fil-A Bowl. His contributions earned him the William E. Simon Prize for Philanthropic Leadership in 2008.

Can you list the books authored by Samuel Truett Cathy and their impact?

Samuel Truett Cathy authored several influential books, including "Eat Mor Chikin: Inspire More People," "It's Easier to Succeed Than to Fail," and "It's Better to Build Boys Than Mend Men." These books reflect his insights on success, leadership, faith, and the importance of building strong community values.

What were the key milestones and honors in Samuel Truett Cathy's life?

Samuel Truett Cathy received numerous distinctions throughout his lifetime, including being inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame in 2003 and being recognized as one of America's wealthiest individuals by Forbes. He was also awarded the President's Call to Service Award by President George W. Bush in 2008 and inducted as a Georgia Trustee in 2013, highlighting his significant contributions to business and community service.