When people think of billionaires, they often imagine luxury penthouses, fleets of exotic cars, and glittering red‑carpet events. Mitzi Perdue’s life tells a different story. Heiress to not one, but two legendary American fortunes—the Sheraton Hotels empire and Perdue Farms—her life is worth billions on paper. Yet, she chooses a quiet apartment, flies economy class, and repairs her shoes instead of buying new ones.
This is the story of Mitzi Perdue: a woman whose net worth might be jaw‑dropping, but whose values and choices show that wealth can be lived with grace, purpose, and humility.
Quick Facts (Wiki Snapshot)
| Full Name | Mitzi Henderson Perdue |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 27, 1941 |
| Birthplace | Lincoln, Massachusetts, USA |
| Age (2025) | 84 years old |
| Height | Not publicly disclosed |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Author, Speaker, Philanthropist, Former Radio & TV Host |
| Known For | Heiress to Sheraton Hotels & Perdue Farms fortunes |
| Net Worth (est.) | ~$22 billion (combined family fortunes) |
| Education | B.A., Harvard University; MPA, George Washington University |
| Marital Status | Widow of Frank Perdue |
| Residence | Salisbury, Maryland, USA |
Early Life and Family Legacy
Mitzi Henderson was born into extraordinary privilege. Her father, Ernest Henderson, co‑founded the Sheraton Hotels chain in 1937, transforming the American hospitality industry. The Sheraton brand eventually grew into a global giant, valued in the range of $12 billion before being sold to ITT in 1968.
Growing up, Mitzi experienced a world of business discussions at the dinner table and was surrounded by examples of entrepreneurship and discipline. However, her parents were careful to teach their children the value of money. Even as a young girl, Mitzi learned the importance of responsibility and humility—qualities that would define her adult life.
Marriage Into a Second Fortune
If inheriting a hotel empire wasn’t enough, Mitzi’s life took another remarkable turn when she married Frank Perdue in 1988. Frank was the legendary CEO and public face of Perdue Farms, one of America’s largest chicken producers, worth an estimated $10 billion.
This union made Mitzi a unique figure in American society: a double heiress whose family wealth spanned two entirely different industries—hospitality and agriculture.
But unlike many high‑net‑worth individuals, Mitzi did not simply sit back and enjoy her fortunes. Instead, she carved out her own career path, built a reputation as a writer and speaker, and dedicated her energy to philanthropic causes.
Net Worth: Breaking Down the Numbers
The often‑quoted figure for Mitzi Perdue’s net worth is around $22 billion. Here’s why:
- Sheraton Hotels Legacy – Estimated value: ~$12 billion.
Her share comes through family trusts and inheritance from her father’s co‑founding stake in the Sheraton hotel chain. - Perdue Farms Legacy – Estimated value: ~$10 billion.
Through her marriage to Frank Perdue, Mitzi became part of the Perdue family’s agricultural empire.
However, it’s important to understand that much of this wealth is not in liquid cash. Instead, it consists of:
- Family trust holdings
- Private company equity
- Real estate investments
- Long‑term business assets
In other words, while Mitzi Perdue has access to an empire worth billions, her personal spending habits are far removed from that figure.
A Career Beyond Wealth
Mitzi could have lived a life of leisure. Instead, she became an author, syndicated columnist, and public speaker.
- Journalism – She has written more than 1,600 articles for outlets like Scripps Howard, covering topics from agriculture to environmental issues.
- Broadcast Media – Hosted and produced hundreds of television and radio programs, including Mitzi’s Country Magazine and Country Comments.
- Books – Authored and co‑authored multiple books, including How to Make Your Family Business Last, Tough Man, Tender Chicken (a biography of her husband Frank Perdue), and Relentless.
- Advocacy – An active voice against human trafficking, environmental destruction, and food insecurity.
Mitzi’s public speaking engagements often focus on family business values, philanthropy, and ethical leadership, making her a sought‑after keynote speaker.
Living Modestly in a Billion‑Dollar World
Mitzi Perdue is living proof that extreme wealth doesn’t have to mean extreme spending.
- Home – She resides in a modest apartment in Salisbury, Maryland, instead of a sprawling mansion.
- Travel – Frequently flies economy class and takes public transportation, even in major cities like New York.
- Daily Habits – Repairs her shoes rather than buying new ones, and often cooks her own meals.
- Philosophy – She believes that money is a tool for doing good, not for showing off.
Her modest lifestyle is not just about frugality—it’s a statement about values. She has said in interviews that the most satisfying part of her wealth is the ability to help others.
Philanthropy and Humanitarian Work
Mitzi devotes a significant amount of her time and resources to charitable causes:
- Human Trafficking Awareness – She is a prominent advocate for ending modern slavery and supports multiple organizations dedicated to this mission.
- Scholarships & Education – Funds programs that provide educational opportunities for disadvantaged students.
- Environmental Conservation – Supports initiatives aimed at protecting ecosystems and promoting sustainable farming.
- Disaster Relief – Known for contributing to global humanitarian relief efforts in the wake of natural disasters.
Her philanthropic work is often hands‑on, involving not only financial donations but also active leadership roles in the organizations she supports.
Personal Life and Values
Mitzi was married to Frank Perdue until his death in 2005. The couple shared a deep commitment to family, faith, and community. Frank was famously the face of Perdue Farms’ advertising campaigns, while Mitzi was the quiet force supporting both the business and their shared charitable work.
Even after Frank’s passing, Mitzi has continued to champion his legacy while forging her own. She remains deeply connected to the Perdue family and actively promotes family unity—something she often speaks about at business conferences.
Why Her Story Resonates
In an age of Instagram luxury and celebrity excess, Mitzi Perdue stands out. Her story resonates because:
- She proves that character matters more than status.
- She shows that wealth can be used for service, not self‑indulgence.
- She embodies the idea that success is not measured by what you spend, but by what you give.
Her life challenges our assumptions about billionaires. She is not a tabloid sensation, nor does she seek to be. Instead, she uses her platform to inspire ethical leadership and community responsibility.
Also check out: Dimitri James Net Worth, Matt Hranek Net Worth
Mitzi Perdue Social Media Profile Information
| Mitzi Perdue Facebook Profile Link. | |
| Mitzi Perdue Instagram Profile Link. | |
| Mitzi Perdue Twitter Profile Link. | |
| TikTok | Mitzi Perdue TikTok Profile Link. |
| YouTube | Mitzi Perdue YouTube Profile Link. |
| Mitzi Perdue Linkedin Profile Link. |
Final Thoughts
Mitzi Perdue’s estimated $22 billion net worth places her among the richest women in America by family fortune. But to measure her life in dollars alone would be a mistake. Her real wealth lies in her commitment to service, humility, and making the world better.
In a world obsessed with wealth, Mitzi’s story reminds us of something simple yet profound: true riches are not found in what we keep, but in what we give away.
FAQs
Q: When was Mitzi Perdue born?
A: Mitzi Perdue was born on March 27, 1941.
Q: Where was Mitzi Perdue born?
A: Mitzi Perdue was born in Lincoln, Massachusetts, United States.
Q: How much Mitzi Perdue net worth?
A: Mitzi Perdue’s net worth is $22 million (Approx.).