Wally Amos, Founder of Famous Amos, Passes Away

Wally Amos, the man behind the famous Famous Amos cookies, has sadly passed away at the age of 88. His children shared that he died peacefully at home, with his wife Carol by his side, after battling dementia.

Known for his signature Panama hat and enthusiastic personality, Amos was more than just a cookie mogul; he was a beacon of inspiration. His kids stated, “Our dad was a great American success story and a source of Black pride.” They emphasized the life lessons he imparted, like the value of hard work and chasing dreams.

Amos’s journey began in 1975 when he opened his first cookie shop in Hollywood, California. Using a beloved family recipe from his aunt, his cookies quickly gained popularity. However, after facing declining sales in the late ’80s, he decided to sell the company.

After selling his business, Amos relocated to Hawaii, where he continued to share his love for baking. His family recalled how he believed that love was the secret ingredient to every cookie he made.

While many remember his brand for the yellow boxes found in stores, those close to him knew him for his genuine passion for cookies and community. In lieu of flowers, his family encourages donations to the Alzheimer’s Association in his memory, suggesting everyone enjoy a chocolate chip cookie today, just like he would have wanted.