Breaking: The Dallas Stars announce the passing of former team owner Thomas O. Hicks

Dallas Stars Announce the Passing of Former Owner Thomas O. Hicks at Age 79

The Dallas Stars have announced that former team owner Thomas O. Hicks has passed away at the age of 79. The organization shared the news in an official statement on Sunday, paying tribute to a figure whose impact on the franchise and the city of Dallas remains immeasurable.

Hicks purchased the Stars in 1995 for $82 million—a figure that looks like a bargain today considering the franchise’s tremendous growth in value and stature during and after his ownership. Under his leadership, the Stars experienced one of the most successful eras in team history. During his tenure from 1995 to 2011, the club captured seven division titles, two Western Conference championships, and two Presidents’ Trophies as the NHL’s top regular-season team.

The pinnacle of Hicks’ ownership came in 1999, when the Stars lifted the Stanley Cup for the first time in franchise history. Many fans still look back on that championship roster as one of the greatest and most iconic in team history.

Beyond on-ice success, Hicks played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s long-term stability. He was instrumental in the development and planning of the American Airlines Center, the state-of-the-art arena that continues to serve as the home of the Stars. He also invested in expanding the sport’s grassroots presence in Texas, supporting the construction of multiple StarCenter facilities to grow youth hockey throughout the region.

A respected business leader, Hicks was widely regarded as a visionary. His influence extended far beyond hockey—he helped shape the cultural, educational, and civic landscape of Dallas, earning recognition as one of the city’s most impactful contributors.

The Stars’ statement emphasized that while his professional legacy is monumental, Hicks will be remembered most for his deep love of family.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to his wife, Cinda Cree, his six children, many grandchildren, and the entire Hicks family. Our franchise would not be in the position it is today without the ownership and leadership of Mr. Hicks. His legacy will be honored by our organization for decades to come.”

The Dallas Stars community, along with fans across the hockey world, continue to pay tribute to the man whose vision helped shape the modern identity of the franchise.