A self-made and proud Texan, Red McCombs was one of the state’s most influential entrepreneurs, known for building billion-dollar enterprises across automotive retail, sports, real estate, and media.
Red McCombs’ defining achievement was not a single deal -it was his ability to identify opportunity early, scale businesses aggressively, and institutionalize entrepreneurial success across industries, all while remaining deeply rooted in Texas.
Red McCombs didn’t just build wealth in Texas -he reinvested it into the state’s economy, institutions, workforce, and civic identity. He and his wife Charline believed strongly in community-building and provided over $250 million in grants to the Texas schools, research institutions, and non-profits where their money could have the greatest lasting impact.
What Red McCombs started in 1953 is still growing with new deals, new developments, and new chapters written by the people he trusted to carry it forward. This is that story, from the beginning to right now.
Red and Charline McCombs were passionate about creating a business that future generations could build upon. McCombs Enterprises continues to thrive with over 100 companies in its portfolio and actively growing, developing, and improving business, Texas, and the lives of Texans