NEW YORK — Pat Williams, a longtime NBA executive who co-founded the Orlando Magic, has died. He was 84.

Williams’ death was due to complications from viral pneumonia, according to a news release from the NBA. He died “peacefully” on Tuesday while surrounded by family.

Williams, who spent more than a half-century working in the NBA, began his career as business manager of his hometown Philadelphia 76ers in 1968. He also served as general manager for the Chicago Bulls – a role he landed at age 29, Atlanta Hawks and 76ers, helping lead the franchise to winning the 1983 NBA championship.

In 1986, Williams teamed with Orlando businessman Jimmy Hewitt to bring an NBA expansion franchise to the central Florida city. Orlando was granted an expansion franchise by the NBA Board of Governors in April 1987, and the Magic joined the NBA in the 1989-90 season. Williams served as the team’s inaugural GM until 1996, when he was promoted to senior vice president, a position he held until his retirement in 2019.

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“Pat Williams simply brought magic to Orlando,” Orlando Magic Chairman Dan DeVos and CEO Alex Martins said in a joint statement. “His accomplishments will always be remembered. Armed with his ever-present optimism and unparalleled energy, he was an incredible visionary who helped transform the world of sports in multiple ways.

“From bringing the Magic to Orlando, to transforming sports marketing and promotions, he was always ahead of the curve. Pat forever changed the sports landscape in Orlando. He shined a light on what those who called Orlando home already knew – that Central Florida was a fabulous place to live, work and play. We all owe him a debt of gratitude and he will certainly be missed, but never forgotten,” the statement added.

Williams is survived by his wife, Ruth, and their 19 children, 14 of whom were adopted from four foreign countries, and his 17 grandchildren.