Wally Amos, the founder of Famous Amos cookies, launched his business in 1975 with a $25,000 loan from friends in Hollywood, including singer Helen Reddy, her then-husband Jeff Wald, and Marvin Gaye. He passed away at 88, as reported by CBS News, peacefully at home with his wife Carol after battling dementia.
Amos began his beloved cookie brand with a family recipe and a Hollywood, California bakery. Opting for bite-sized chocolate chip cookies when larger treats were in vogue, he gained acclaim from iconic musicians and Hollywood celebrities. Later, he ventured into owning the Hawaiian cookie shop Chip & Cookie and co-founding Uncle Wally’s Muffin Co., distributing nationwide. His family described him as a beacon of entrepreneurship, known for his Panama hat, kazoo, and unwavering optimism, contributing significantly to Black pride.
Beyond business, Amos was a literacy advocate, authoring eight books, advocating for Literacy Volunteers of America, and delivering motivational speeches. Recognized with the National Literacy Award in 1991 by President George H.W. Bush, he left a lasting legacy through his dedication to literacy and entrepreneurship.