‘Tex’ Earnhardt, founder of Earnhardt Auto Centers, dead at age 89

PHOENIX — ‘Tex’ Earnhardt, the iconic founder of Earnhardt Auto Centers, has died at the age of 89.

Earnhardt moved from rural Texas to Chandler as a teenager where he became a rodeo cowboy and worked at his family’s gas station off of Arizona Avenue, according to a statement by Earnhardt Auto Centers.

At the age of 20, Earnhardt became Ford Motor Company’s youngest franchise owner, founding the first of many Earnhardt Auto Centers on Sept. 4, 1951.

Earnhardt would eventually grow his franchise into 23 dealerships representing 17 brands spanning both metro Phoenix and Las Vegas.

In addition to his successful automotive dealerships, Earnhardt was well-known for giving back to the community.

Earnhardt sponsored many causes, including Bully Free AZ, a partner initiative with KTAR News 92.3 FM and Arizona Sports to stop the spread of bullying through eduction, prevention and proactive measures.

His two sons and several grandchildren are currently involved in managing operations at Earnhardt Auto Centers.

In lieu of gifts, the Earnhardt family has encouraged those interested to make a charitable donation in Earnhardt’s memory to the Chandler Compadres.

Earnhardt would have turned 90 on Dec. 9.

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