David Beard, ‘The Catfish King’ passes away at 82 years old

East Texans are mourning the passing of another local, beloved entrepreneur and well-known restaurateur.

KLTV reports family confirmed the passing of patriarch David Beard, better known as the 'Catfish King' last Friday, June 22.

Beard opened his first restaurant, Catfish Village, in 1969 on Highway 155 just north of Ore City. He eventually grew his business to more that 15 restaurants in three states.

His first restaurant is still open, run by family and is a staple in the small town.

Beard's funeral is planned for 2 p.m. Monday, June 25 and he will be laid to rest at Coffeeville Cemetery, according to his obituary on Reeder-Davis Funeral Home website.

Beard's family requested that in lieu of flowers to donate to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in his memory.

According to family, Beard died from natural causes. He was 82 years old.