Shelby Peeples, Flooring Industry Entrepreneur, Dies at 85

Dalton, GA, February 11, 2021-Shelby Peeples, 85, flooring industry entrepreneur, died February 10.

Peeples’ business efforts encompassed a broad range of specialties: carpet backing, carpet finishing, yarn extrusion, LVT manufacturing, hospitality carpet, synthetic turf and real estate. CM Hospitality and Signature are two hospitality brands within his portfolio.

Peeples’ approach to life and work hinged on common sense, hard work and taking care of your neighbor. He loved his family, the industry and the community. As one of Whitfield County's noted entrepreneurial families, the Peeples’ drive and determination seem to be never ending. Even after a long career of working hard and raising their family, they rise early each day to work but also make plenty of time for family and friends. Their legacy has become increasingly important to them as they seek ways to improve the quality of life for current and future generations.

"Shelby always wanted to help," recalls Thunder Thornton, co-founder of American Rug Craftsman. "Every molecule of our success at American Rug Craftsman can be attributed to our relationship with Shelby's coating business. And I remember that he always said, ‘My net worth is my family."

Peeples is survived by his wife, Willena, and four children: Jane Stanfield, Allan, Tom and Bryan.

Shelby and Willena (Davis) attended school together in the first grade. They became high school sweethearts and were married just after graduation in 1953. Married more than 65 years, they have four children, nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Peeples will also be remembered for his many humanitarian efforts and donations, including the Peeples Cancer Institute of Hamilton Medical Center and Peeples Hall, a 58,000 square foot science building at Dalton State College.

In 2015, he was inducted into the Junior Achievement of Northwest Georgia Business Hall of Fame.

Photo courtesy of Dalton Daily Citizen