W.F. Taylor Founder Wallace Taylor Dies

Fontana, CA, Oct. 12, 2011 -- Wallace F. “Wally” Taylor, former owner of W. F. Taylor Co., died Sept. 22 at the age of 84.

Taylor was a pioneer in the formulation of adhesives for the floorcovering industry with the advent of glue down carpet applications. His company also became a market force in tackless strip, hot melt tape and tool manufacturing.  These product lines were eventually sold to other flooring accessory entities and are still sold today.

Taylor served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and returned after his service and received his degree in chemistry from the University of Arizona.  He worked for several large adhesives manufacturers before forming the W. F. Taylor Co.  in 1977.

Wally later sold the company to British holding company Reed Publishing in 1984.  The company was later purchased by current chairman John E. Raidy, Sr., in 1989 from Williams Holding, another subsequent British owner and today remains a family run company.

“Wally left a strong legacy to build upon and was viewed as a consummate gentleman by our customers and employees.  He has remained a valued resource over the years,” Raidy said.