Longtime Former TJX Exec Dies at 91

Richard Gershon Lesser, a former executive for TJ Maxx parent company TJX Cos., died Aug. 13 at age 91, Women’s Wear Daily reports. Known for helping to shape the growth of TJ Maxx, Lesser was a co-founder of Reebok USA. He joined TJ Maxx in 1981 and eventually became President and COO of TJX. Lesser was a Senior Corporate Advisor to the company until he retired in 2005.

“Dick was an extraordinary leader, mentor and friend to so many of us at TJX. He had incredible business instincts, a passion for our company, and a remarkable ability to connect with people,” TJX CEO and President Ernie Herrman told WWD.

Beyond retail, Lesser was a longtime trustee and benefactor of Northeastern University, his alma mater, and supported numerous philanthropic causes.