Thomas Lee was renowned for his generosity, having served as a trustee for notable New York City art institutions. Some of which include the Lincoln Center and the Museum of Modern Art was found dead in his office.
He has died from what looked like a self-inflicted gunshot wound and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.
He was found at 767 Fifth Avenue. which is where Thomas H Lee Capital LLC’s offices are located. In a statement, Thomas Lee’s family said they were extremely saddened by his death. He was 78 years old at the time of his death.
The police spokesman did not immediately confirm the cause of death, noting that it would be for a medical examiner to determine. At the time of his death, Mr. Lee was worth $2 billion according to Forbes.
Thomas Lee is often considered a pioneer of private equity investment and leveraged buyouts. In a statement on Thursday, the family did not note the cause of death.
The police reportedly responded to a 911 call from a Fifth Avevue office soon after 11:00 on Thursday.
A philanthropist
A family friend and spokesman Michael Sitrick, he was known as a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. A friend and philanthropist who always placed the needs of others before his own.
Mr. Lee was also known for acquiring the beverage firm Snapple in 1992 and selling it to Quaker Oats. He sold it for 32 times the original price it bought the company – $1.7bn.
He also donated $22 million to Harvard University, his alma mater in 1996. A portion of the donation was used to finance student aid.
He famously remarked at the time that “I have been fortunate to earn some money. I am delighted to give part of it back ”
He is survived by his wife, Ann Tenenbaum, and their five children.
