Dallas Businessman Comer Cottrell Remembered

Leaders and community members across North Texas are remembering Dallas business leader and philanthropist Comer Cottrell.

NBC DFW media partner The Dallas Morning News reported that Cottrell died at his Dallas home on Friday morning. He was 82-years-old.

In 1970, Cottrell and his brother founded Pro-Line, an African-American hair care products company. According to a Texas Monthly article, the company grew in three decades to a major success and included brands such Just for Me and Soft and Beautiful hair relaxers. The company was later acquired by Alberto-Culver for a reported $75 million.

Ron Kirk, the first African-American mayor of Dallas, told TDMN that Cottrell was "selfless."

“He was one of the most important business leaders in North Texas,” said former U.S. trade representative Ron Kirk to TDMN. “When he moved Pro-Line to North Texas, it generated energy and excitement in the Dallas community.”

In 1991, Cottrell purchased the land to relocate Paul Quinn College, an historically black college/university to southern Dallas.

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Cottrell owned a stake in the Texas Rangers baseball team between 1989-1998 when George W. Bush was one of the principal owners.

Texas Monthly also reported that prior to becoming a business giant, Cottrell was a U.S. Air Force sergeant. He was also a partner in a publishing company.

Funeral arrangements are pending.