David Simon, the chairman, president, and CEO of Simon Property Group, passed away on March 22, 2026, at the age of 64 after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. His death marks the end of an era for one of the largest retail real estate companies in the world, which he led for three decades.
Simon became CEO of Simon Property Group in 1995, taking the reins of a company that his father, Melvin Simon, co-founded in 1960. Under David Simon’s leadership, the company grew significantly, owning or holding interests in more than 250 properties. His strategic vision and relentless drive for excellence transformed Simon Property Group from a regional real estate business into a dominant player in the global market.
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During his tenure, Simon Property Group delivered a cumulative total shareholder return of more than 4,500 percent since its initial public offering. Simon was recognized as one of the world’s best-performing CEOs by Harvard Business Review in both 2010 and 2013, a testament to his exceptional leadership and business acumen.
David Simon was not only a successful businessman but also a devoted family man. He was married to Jackie Simon for over 40 years and was a father to five children. His family released a statement saying, “Our beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother poured his heart and soul into building Simon Property Group.” This sentiment reflects the deep personal commitment he had to both his family and his professional endeavors.
Industry peers have expressed their condolences and admiration for Simon’s contributions. William T. Dillard 2nd remarked, “David took a company that his father and uncles started and built it into a dominant retail real estate company. He will be missed.” Michael Gould, a business partner, noted, “He was a hard negotiator and tough landlord, but forthright and honest,” highlighting Simon’s reputation in the industry.
Simon Simon’s legacy will continue through his son, Eli Simon, who has been named the new CEO and president of Simon Property Group following his father’s death. Eli’s appointment signifies a continuation of the family’s influence in the real estate sector, as David Simon had joined the family business as CFO in 1990 after obtaining a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University in 1983 and an MBA from Columbia University in 1985.
As the industry reflects on Simon’s impact, Larry Glasscock remarked, “David’s extraordinary intellect, his relentless drive for excellence and his unmatched strategic vision transformed a privately held family business into an esteemed global institution.” This statement encapsulates the profound effect Simon had on the retail real estate landscape.
David Simon’s passing is a significant loss to the business community, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any memorial services or tributes planned in his honor.
