Bernard “Bernie” Marcus, the billionaire co-founder of Home Depot and one of the Republican Party’s most prominent financial backers, has passed away at the age of 95, the company confirmed on Tuesday. Marcus, who became a major figure in both the business world and conservative political circles, was known for his significant role in transforming Home Depot into a retail empire, as well as his outspoken support for former President Donald Trump.
Home Depot Mourns the Loss of its Visionary Co-Founder
“The entire Home Depot family is deeply saddened by the death of our cofounder Bernie Marcus,” Home Depot said in a statement. “We owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to Bernie.” As of his passing, Marcus’ net worth was estimated at $7.4 billion, according to Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index. He made his fortune from the launch of Home Depot in 1978, a retail chain he co-founded with business partner Arthur Blank. Marcus and Blank revolutionized the hardware store business, creating a one-stop shop that would become a retail giant known for its enormous selection, excellent customer service, and competitive pricing. Today, Home Depot operates more than 2,300 stores worldwide and has a market valuation approaching $400 billion.
A Humble Beginning, a Visionary Outcome
Born in 1929 in Newark, New Jersey, Marcus grew up in a working-class Jewish family, the youngest of four siblings. His parents, who had immigrated from Russia, instilled in him a strong work ethic that would later define his professional life. Marcus attended Rutgers University, where he earned a degree in merchandising and marketing. His early career saw him working in various retail chains before landing a position at Handy Dan Home Improvement, a California-based company that would serve as the launching pad for his future business endeavors.
It was at Handy Dan that Marcus met Arthur Blank. After both were fired when a new management team took over, the two decided to create their own retail chain—one that would upend the traditional hardware store model. They opened the first Home Depot store in Atlanta in 1979, envisioning a store with lower prices, more selection, and better-trained staff. The concept was a success, and over the next two decades, Home Depot grew into one of the largest retailers in the world, changing the way Americans shopped for home improvement products.
A Philanthropist with a Lasting Impact
Beyond his business acumen, Marcus was widely recognized for his charitable endeavors. Along with his wife, Billi, he played a key role in the creation of the Marcus Autism Center at Emory University, which provides resources and services to children with developmental disabilities. In addition to his work in autism research, Marcus made significant contributions to other medical and Jewish causes, as well as to the broader community. Notably, he helped fund the development of the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world, with a $250 million donation that enabled its opening in 2005.
Throughout his life, Marcus maintained close ties to his Jewish roots, and his philanthropic work often centered around Jewish organizations. He also donated to various causes focused on education, healthcare, and the arts. His generosity and commitment to giving back earned him widespread respect, particularly in the Atlanta community, where he was regarded as a local philanthropist and advocate.
Political Views: An Outspoken Republican Megadonor
Marcus’ political views were as bold as his business ventures. A lifelong conservative, Marcus was a major donor to Republican candidates and causes, often using his wealth to support politicians who aligned with his values. Over the years, he donated millions of dollars to Republican candidates at both the state and national levels, including former Arizona Senator John McCain, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and most notably, Donald Trump.
His financial backing of Trump was one of the most public aspects of Marcus’ political involvement. A staunch supporter of Trump’s presidential campaign, Marcus frequently appeared on conservative media outlets such as Fox News and Fox Business, where he discussed his political views and endorsed Trump’s leadership. His strong support for the former president drew both praise and criticism, particularly from those who opposed Trump’s policies and rhetoric.
In 2016, some of Trump’s critics tried to launch boycotts of Home Depot, citing Marcus’ close ties to the Republican nominee. Despite the backlash, Marcus remained firm in his political beliefs, continuing to donate to Trump’s campaigns and speaking out on behalf of his policies.
A Critic of “Socialism” and “Wokeness”
In his later years, Marcus became increasingly vocal about his views on the state of American society. He expressed concerns about what he saw as the rise of socialism in the U.S., claiming that it undermined the nation’s work ethic. In a 2022 interview with The Financial Times, he lamented, “Nobody works. Nobody gives a damn. ‘Just give it to me. Send me money. I don’t want to work — I’m too lazy, I’m too fat, I’m too stupid.’”
He also spoke out against what he called the “woke” culture, which he believed had overtaken much of American society. “We used to have free speech here. We don’t have it. The woke people have taken over the world,” he said. Despite his age, he was adamant that his views would not be silenced. “I’m 93. Who gives a crap about Bernie Marcus?” he remarked, highlighting his defiance against what he saw as an oppressive cultural shift.
A Legacy of Innovation and Influence
Bernie Marcus leaves behind a profound legacy. As a businessman, he not only helped create one of the most successful retail chains in history, but he also helped shape the future of American home improvement retailing. As a philanthropist, he made a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals and communities through his charitable donations. And as a political donor and advocate, he played a role in shaping the direction of the Republican Party in the 21st century.
Marcus’ death marks the end of an era for both Home Depot and the broader conservative movement, where his influence will be felt for years to come. His vision, values, and commitment to his business, community, and country will leave a lasting imprint on the industries and causes he supported.