(CBS DETROIT) – Entrepreneur William Pickard, who started his career as a McDonald’s franchisee in Detroit, has died. He was 83 years old.
Pickard died Wednesday at his home in West Palm Beach, Florida, according to a statement from his family.
“On behalf of our family, we express our sincere gratitude for the love and support during this difficult time. Your kindness has provided tremendous comfort. We kindly ask for privacy at this time. Funeral arrangements will be announced soon,” his family said.
Thanks to the Pickard family
Pickard founded GAA Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management in 1989, co-owned five Black-owned newspapers and was co-managing partner at MGM Grand Detroit Casino. According to his biography on the GAA website, he generated more than $5 billion in sales with multiple factories and companies in the US and Canada, including Ford, General Motors, Stellantis (formerly Chrysler), Starbucks, Home Depot, the US Marine Corp and the city of Detroit.
He received the 2019 Michigan Lifetime Humanitarian Award and Michiganian of the Year.
Pickard received his bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University, a master’s degree from the University of Michigan and a Ph.D. from Ohio State University.
Over the years, Pickard donated millions of dollars to his alma mater WSU, the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington DC, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, the Motown Historical Museum and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra . and the Wayne County Community College District.
“I am saddened by the passing of Dr. Bill Pickard, and would like to express my sincere condolences to his family,” Wayne County Executive Warren Evans said in a statement. “Dr. Pickard was an astute businessman, philanthropist and leader who made great contributions to our state and nation. Among his many achievements, he will be remembered for his commitment to uplifting the black community and helping black men continue of their education at Morehouse College.”
