Houston honored J-Bar-M Barbecue founder John J. Toomey on his 98th birthday with a city proclamation establishing 'John J. Toomey Day' in 2026. The celebration at his restaurant gathered family, community leaders, and University of Houston representatives to recognize his lifelong commitment to business, philanthropy, and family.

At an age when most people are slowing down, John Toomey is still showing up. Every day, nearly without fail, the 97-year-old can be found at J-Bar-M Barbecue in East Downtown Houston, reading the Wall Street Journal, sipping coffee, and checking in with his staff- often with his loyal Labrador, Smokey, trotting close behind.