[1][2] Marquis was born in Decatur, Ohio, and raised by his maternal grandparents in nearby Hamersville.
His early publications were generally guide books, directories, and maps.
He was the full owner of Who's Who until 1926,[2][3] and remained as editor in chief of the publication until 1940.
[4] Marquis also published specialized versions Who's Who, including occupation-specific and location-specific editions.
[5] Marquis died of heart trouble at his home in Evanston, Illinois, on December 21, 1943.