Atlanta Bids Farewell to a Local Legend, Bernie Marcus
On a warm Thursday afternoon in Atlanta, a heartfelt farewell was held at The Temple, where countless friends, family members, and admirers gathered to honor a remarkable life that touched so many. Bernie Marcus, who co-founded The Home Depot and played a significant role in his community, passed away earlier this week at the age of 95.
The atmosphere was choked with emotion as Marcus’ stepson, Michael Morris, shared his heart-wrenching thoughts with those gathered. “My mother will have a hole in her heart for the rest of her life. God bless,” he said, echoing the collective grief felt among the attendees.
A Legacy of Giving
The mourners were not just there to remember Marcus as a business titan; they also recalled his incredible spirit of generosity. His son, Fred Marcus, summed up his father’s life with this simple yet profound statement: “If there was one word that could describe my father’s activity in the world, it is that he was uniquely a founder.”
Among the many friends who stood in support was Arthur Blank, Marcus’ longtime partner and co-founder of The Home Depot. Blank, who wore the familiar bright orange apron of the store, described Marcus as “a father figure, a brother to me, a mentor to me. In my eyes, a true hero in every sense of the word.” Their friendship, which blossomed into the creation of a home improvement empire in 1979, left a lasting impact not only in business but also in the lives of countless individuals.
Moment of Reflection
As attendees moved through the venue, many wore orange aprons in recognition of Marcus’ monumental contributions to The Home Depot. Some of the close to half-a-million employees who now work at the company came from afar to pay their respects, highlighting the deep bond that still exists within the company.
Rabbi Peter Berg poignantly reminded everyone how fortunate they were to have known Marcus. “Indeed, we are all blessed for the privilege of sharing in his life. Woe unto us, for our friend Bernie Marcus can never be replaced. Amen,” he said, resonating deeply with the congregation.
More Than a Businessman
Bernie Marcus was more than just a co-founder of The Home Depot; he was a community pillar. Having been born and raised in New Jersey, Marcus served his country during the Korean War era before establishing roots in Atlanta. Upon arriving, he brought with him daring dreams that not only transformed a retail industry but also enriched the lives of many.
Throughout his life, Marcus and his wife Billi dedicated themselves to philanthropy, contributing over $2 billion towards various causes. His generosity helped build state-of-the-art medical treatment and research hospitals across Atlanta, contributed to the construction of the magnificent Georgia Aquarium, and provided unwavering support to the Jewish community, among numerous other endeavors.
In Closing
Bernie Marcus leaves behind a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the world of business. His compassion, strength, and remarkable vision turned dreams into reality for many, and the impact of his contributions will be felt for generations to come. As Atlanta bids farewell to this beloved figure, it holds close the memories of his unwavering spirit and dedication to giving back. The city mourns, yet celebrates the life of a true legend.
