TODD MISSION, Texas — George Coulam, the founder of the Texas Renaissance Festival and a towering figure in its 50-year history, died by suicide, according to an update from Grimes County Precinct 3 Justice of the Peace Mark Laughlin.
Laughlin said Coulam’s remains were released to Magnolia Funeral Home by the Fort Bend County Medical Examiner’s Office. Details about the funeral will be handled in accordance with Coulam’s will. Laughlin didn’t elaborate on those details, citing respect for the family’s privacy.
The 87-year-old was found dead at his home in Todd Mission on the morning of May 21. Grimes County Sheriff Donald Sowell previously said there were no signs of foul play and no threat to the public.
A festival founder and Texas icon
Known affectionately as “King George,” Coulam founded the Texas Renaissance Festival in 1974 and transformed it into one of the largest and most beloved Renaissance-themed festivals in the country. The event draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to Todd Mission each fall and has become a cultural staple across Texas…