William Davis Metts

A funeral service for William Davis Metts, 68, a long-time Taylor Machine Works Inc director, was held on 20 July in his home town of Louisville.

Metts joined Taylor as a service man in 1959, initially taking care of customers in the US south east, moved into sales and, since 1972, had responsibility as the firm's director of marketing.

"William's expert knowledge of the Taylor products, his infectious attitude of positive thinking, and his 'get the job done no matter what it takes' spirit led him into the Taylor sales organisation," the company notes. "He led the company through its formative years as head of sales and service during the strategic transition from an agricultural and forestry equipment manufacturer into the big lift materials handling giant Taylor is known for today."

Characterising him as an industry icon, Louisville-based Taylor adds: "There has never been a better forklift salesman than William Metts. William's amazing analytical ability of assessing equipment wear and tear led him to become an industry expert in the field of lift equipment residual values, thus developing a sound aftermarket equipment valuation methodology for the company and competitors alike."

Metts died on 17 July at Winston Medical Center in Louisville.

Survivors include his wife, Nelda Childs Metts, three children, 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Poplar Flat Baptist Church, 906 North Church Ave., Louisville, MS 39339, is accepting memorial donations.