Kristen Pierce-Sherrod, the longtime CEO of Harold's Chicken Shack and daughter of its founder, has died at the age of 55. Her family confirmed the news this week. Memorial plans will be announced at a later date, according to ABC7 Chicago.

In Chicago, Harold’s Chicken is more than just food; it’s a cultural institution. Pierce-Sherrod knew this well and spent years protecting the brand's core while helping it grow nationwide. After her father, Harold Pierce, passed away, she took over the family business, ensuring it remained Black-owned, family-run, and connected to the neighborhoods that shaped it.

Harold’s was started in 1950 on Chicago’s South Side, inspired by Pierce’s move from Alabama during the Great Migration. It began as a small business and became a city favorite, famous for fried-to-order chicken, crinkle-cut fries, and its mild sauce. With Pierce-Sherrod leading, Harold’s has opened dozens of locations in cities like Los Angeles, Atlanta, Houston, and Las Vegas, while always keeping its Chicago roots.

Harold’s differs from big chains in that it uses licensing partnerships rather than franchises. Pierce-Sherrod and her husband, Vincent Sherrod, were highly involved, visiting stores to ensure consistency and quality. They paid attention to every detail, from how long the chicken marinated to how the wings were placed on the fries.

Harold’s became popular mostly through word of mouth and strong community support, with Chicago rappers often mentioning it and locals staying loyal. Pierce-Sherrod also gave back by supporting organizations such as the Chicago Children’s Equestrian Center.

Her passing is a loss for the Black food community and for Chicago. She was more than a business owner; she protected an important part of the city’s history.