NEED TO KNOW
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Kristen Pierce-Sherrod, CEO of Harold’s Chicken and daughter of founder Harold Pierce, has died
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Her family announced the news on social media and asked for privacy, with arrangements to be shared later
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Pierce-Sherrod led the iconic Chicago-born chain as it grew while honoring its roots
Kristen Pierce-Sherrod, the CEO of Harold’s Chicken and the daughter of the restaurant’s founder, Harold Pierce, has died, her family announced.
News of Pierce-Sherrod’s death was shared in a since-deleted statement posted to Instagram on behalf of both Harold’s Chicken Corporate and the Chicago Children’s Equestrian Center, an organization Pierce-Sherrod was closely connected to.
Interim Archives/Getty
View of the pedestrians lined up at a Harold’s Chicken food truck parked on South Clark Street (between Monroe and Adams streets), Chicago, Illinois, October 2016.
“On behalf of Harold’s Chicken Corporate and the Chicago Children Equestrian Center, we are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our Chief Executive Officer, Kristen D. Pierce-Sherrod,” the statement read, per a CBS News report. “The family extends their sincere gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and condolences. At this time, we kindly ask that their privacy be respected during this time of bereavement.”
No additional details were provided regarding the date or cause of Pierce-Sherrod’s death. Her family said funeral arrangements would be announced at a later time.
PEOPLE reached out to Harold’s Chicken for comment.
Pierce-Sherrod led Harold’s Chicken, one of Chicago’s most recognizable and beloved food institutions, carrying forward the legacy started by her parents more than seven decades ago. The restaurant was founded in 1950 by Harold Pierce and his wife, Hilda Pierce, as a small neighborhood spot on Chicago’s South Side, according to the company’s website.
Over the years, Harold’s Chicken grew far beyond its original location, expanding into a regional brand with restaurants across eight states. Despite its growth, the chain has remained closely tied to Chicago’s culture and identity, known for its fried chicken served with signature mild or hot sauce and its deep roots in local communities.
As CEO, Pierce-Sherrod played a key role in guiding the family-owned business into its next chapter while honoring its history. Her leadership helped maintain the brand’s reputation as a Chicago staple while supporting its continued expansion.
Tributes and messages of condolence have poured in from customers, community members, and fans of the iconic restaurant, many of whom credited Pierce-Sherrod with preserving the spirit and legacy of Harold’s Chicken for future generations.
Read the original article on People
