Lexington businessman Ron Rager, 50, chief operating officer for Bluegrass Hospitality Group, died Sunday at his home.

Mr. Rager grew up in Vero Beach, Fla., and spent 18 years in the military. After his military career, he moved to Kentucky to be closer to family.

Mr. Rager worked as a general manager for Thomas & King from 2001 to 2007, when he joined Bluegrass Hospitality Group. In 2012, he served as chairman of the Kentucky Restaurant Association.

Bluegrass Hospitality Group's Lexington restaurants, which include Malone's, Sal's Chophouse, Harry's and Drake's, will be closed until 5 p.m. Thursday in Mr. Rager's honor.

"Ron was an inspiration and a great leader," said Brian McCarty, co-owner of Bluegrass Hospitality Group. "He was an irreplaceable member of our family and he will live forever through our staff and memories."

Mr. Rager is survived by his sisters, Nancy Cook of Sharpsburg and Jacqueline Pearsall of Vero Beach, Fla.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Southland Christian Church's Richmond Road campus. Services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the church.

Karla Ward: (859) 231-3314. Twitter: @HLpublicsafety