Chick-fil-A Founder Passes Away at 93

S. Truett Cathy, the founder of chicken chain Chick-fil-A passed away early this morning. According to a statement on the restaurant's website, Cathy was 93 and "died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones."

USA Today writes that Cathy opened the first Chick-fil-A in Altanta in 1967. The company now operates more than 1,800 locations across 39 states. Annual sales topped $5 billion in early 2013. Cathy was known for being deeply religious and the chain "gained prominence" for closing on Sundays in order to allow employees time to worship. While Cathy retained the title of "chairman emeritus" he had handed over the reigns of the company to his son Dan Cathy — who caused controversy with his anti-gay marriage statements — in recent years.

· Truett Catchy Dies at Age 93 [Official Site]
· S. Truett Cathy Dies at 93 [USA Today]
· All Chick-fil-A Coverage on Eater [-E-]