SAN ANTONIO – James "Jimmy" Cavender, a prominent San Antonio businessman, passed away Tuesday night, a family member confirmed to KSAT 12.
Cavender had been battling a respiratory illness during the month of March.
Cavender was a founder of the Cavender Auto Group, and attended both Alamo Heights High School and the University of Texas at Austin.
Rick Cavender, Jimmy's son, released the following statement from the family on Wednesday:
"Dad can be remembered as a man who always carried a smile and a helpful attitude. He could meet you for the first time and make you feel like a life long friend. His employees were his family. His customers were his friends. And he gave so much back to thank this community that has blessed him and our family."
Funeral arrangements are pending.
Cavender was 86 years old.