Joseph C. “Cy” Gantt, 88, died Jan. 10 at Hospice Marliere Care Center in New Port Richey, Fla., after a courageous battle with leukemia.

Gantt served in the U.S. Army as 1st Sgt. in the 261st Inf. Reg, 65th Div. during WWII under Gen. George C. Patton. He later worked for E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co. for 46 years; he retired in 1984 from the Textile Fibers Carpet Division but remained a consultant for several more years. Still involved in the floor covering industry, he was an honorary board member of the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification at the time of his death.

He was known worldwide throughout the industry and, in 2008, he was recognized for his exceptional contribution of time and service. He received four awards, including the “IICRC Cy Gantt Award,” created in his honor and that will be presented to a deserving individual annually.