Famous Amos Cookies Founder Wally Amos Dies at 88
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Famous Amos Cookies is a beloved American brand, but did you know it was named after a real person, Wallace ‘Wally’ Amos, Jr.? The Black American entrepreneur who brought us those iconic bite-sized chocolate chip cookies passed away on August 7 at the age of 88, after battling dementia. His family, including his wife Carol and their children, released a statement honoring his legacy, calling him ‘a great American success story’ and a ‘source of Black pride.’Wally Amos started with a single bakery in Hollywood in 1975, and his cookies quickly became a hit among celebrities. His innovation in offering bite-sized cookies set Famous Amos apart, making it a household name. Beyond his cookie empire, Amos authored eight books and was a dedicated advocate for literacy, serving as a spokesperson for Literacy Volunteers of America for 24 years. His contributions earned him the National Literacy Award from President George H.W. Bush in 1991. Wally Amos was more than just a brand; he was a trailblazer and an inspiration to many.
