Live Ventures Loses Marquis Industries Founder Tim Bailey at 79…

Event summary

Tim Bailey, founder of Marquis Industries, passed away on September 6, 2026, at age 79.
Bailey founded Marquis Industries in 1997, which was acquired by Live Ventures in 2015 for an undisclosed sum.
Marquis Industries employs approximately 475 people, primarily in Georgia.
Bailey remained involved post-acquisition, ensuring a smooth transition to current Co-CEOs Wes Godfrey and Chet Graham.

The big picture

Tim Bailey's passing marks the end of an era for Marquis Industries, a critical subsidiary within Live Ventures' portfolio. His leadership was instrumental in the company's growth and successful acquisition by Live Ventures in 2015. The flooring manufacturing sector, particularly in the Southeastern U.S., will feel the impact of his loss, as Bailey's hands-on approach and emphasis on employee loyalty set a benchmark for industry standards. Live Ventures must now ensure that Bailey's legacy is preserved while adapting to a new leadership dynamic.

What we're watching

Leadership Continuity: Whether Wes Godfrey and Chet Graham can sustain Marquis Industries' growth trajectory without Bailey's foundational influence.
Strategic Integration: How Live Ventures will navigate the loss of a key figure in one of its core subsidiaries.
Operational Stability: The pace at which Marquis Industries can maintain its operational culture and employee loyalty post-Bailey.