Herb Kelleher
Born 1931 · Age 94
Herb Kelleher (March 12, 1931 – January 3, 2019) was an American lawyer and airline businessman, co‑founder of Southwest Airlines; later served as CEO and was chairman emeritus until his death.
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Life & Career Timeline
Professional identity: lawyer
Herb Kelleher was a trained lawyer by profession (this background influenced his role in founding and defending Southwest).
Co‑founded Southwest Airlines
Herb Kelleher co‑founded Southwest Airlines (with Rollin King).
Southwest Airlines began commercial service
Southwest Airlines commenced its first scheduled passenger flights (the airline launched passenger service after regulatory/licensing work).
Established leadership that shaped Southwest culture
During this period Kelleher solidified Southwest's low‑cost, employee‑focused culture that would define the airline’s strategy.
Became CEO of Southwest Airlines
Herb Kelleher assumed the role of CEO of Southwest Airlines (he had been a leading executive/co‑founder and took on formal CEO leadership).
Led Southwest through major growth era
Kelleher led Southwest through significant expansion in routes and market share during the late 1980s and 1990s.
Stepped down as CEO of Southwest Airlines
Herb Kelleher stepped down from the CEO position at Southwest (transitioning leadership after decades at the helm).
Transitioned to chairman emeritus (approx.)
Around this time Kelleher transitioned from active board/chair leadership toward an emeritus role (he remained chairman emeritus thereafter).
Recognized publicly as a billionaire business figure
By late life Kelleher was widely described in media as a billionaire and legendary airline executive associated with Southwest's success.
Held title chairman emeritus until death
Kelleher retained the honorary title of chairman emeritus of Southwest Airlines up to his passing.
Died
Herb Kelleher died on January 3, 2019; he was chairman emeritus of Southwest Airlines at his death.
Key Achievement Ages
Explore what Herb Kelleher and others achieved at these notable ages:
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