The founder of the Sonny’s BBQ restaurant chain has passed away at the age of 96.
Floyd “Sonny” Tillman founded the restaurant in Gainesville back in 1968, along with his wife, Lucille. She passed in 2021 at the age of 91.
In addition to being a successful restauratur, he was a big supporter of the University of Florida.
He opened that first barbecue joint in Gainesville in 1968 and it grew into a regional chain with 91 locations in 8 Southern states.
Last night, my grandfather, Sonny Tillman, passed away peacefully surrounded by family.
— 🆃🅸🅻🅻🆈™️ (@JT_Till7) December 8, 2025
Most people knew him for his legendary BBQ and his deep love for Florida Gator Athletics, but I was blessed to know him for so much more.
He was my “Pop,” my example, and my mentor. Pop, I… pic.twitter.com/yVtfyPR4RM
