Community Tributes to Bernie Marcus

Several organizations expressed their condolences upon Bernie's passing and gratitude for the legacy of philanthropy that he leaves behind.

Donald J. Trump

I just learned of the passing of legendary entrepreneur and political genius Bernie Marcus. He was my supporter from the beginning and was always there when I needed help or advice. He strongly endorsed me for this election, as well as my other runs, and I will never forget him for that. He was an extraordinary man and I look forward to powerfully honoring him in the future. Warmest condolences to his wonderful family, and all of his many friends!

– Donald J. Trump, President-Elect of the United States

Donna Hyland

Bernie Marcus was a remarkable man. He will be remembered for many things, for building one of the world’s great companies, but most for his charitable giving that has benefitted millions of people. Bernie never forgot his very humble beginnings and teachings of giving from his mother. He was a tremendous friend to Children’s and loved our mission. I am thankful that I knew this great man. Our thoughts are with Bernie’s wife, Billi, the entire Marcus Family and the Marcus Foundation.

– Donna Hyland, CEO of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

Arthur Blank

I am heartbroken at the passing of my dearest friend, Bernie Marcus. Today, I’ve lost a father-figure, mentor, brother and business and life partner. While this loss is profoundly painful, I am grateful for the close to 60 years we spent together, navigating challenges and celebrating successes, and I am honored to have been part of Bernie’s remarkable life.
Bernie’s impact extends far beyond the aisles of our stores; his philanthropic efforts touched countless lives and communities. He believed in the power of giving back and dedicated himself to making a difference in the world. His commitment to innovation, integrity and service was an inspiration to anyone who knew him, including me. His passion for improving people’s lives drove his generosity, and it was part of his DNA leading The Home Depot and continued through his life and will continue beyond his passing. Beyond Bernie’s professional success, Bernie’s devotion to his beautiful family was equally admirable.
On behalf of my entire family and our family of businesses, I send my deepest condolences to his dear wife and my friend, Billi Marcus, and their beautiful family. We join the city of Atlanta, the nation of The Home Depot associates and those that have had the distinct honor of knowing Bernie in mourning the loss of a leader, entrepreneur, philanthropist, humanitarian and friend.
Bernie’s tremendous commitment to so many causes will live on, as will the immeasurable impact on countless individuals and families who have been blessed by his giving heart. I will forever carry his memory and influence on my life with me.

– Arthur Blank, Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival

The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival mourns the passing of Bernie Marcus, a philanthropist, steadfast pillar of our community, and visionary business leader. Through the Marcus Foundation, Bernie’s far-reaching generosity touched countless lives—from uplifting Jewish life (including AJFF) and advancing healthcare, to championing free enterprise and nurturing the well-being of children and communities. His legacy in these core areas, where his values and ideals flourished, will inspire generations to come. Our thoughts are with the Marcus family as we honor a life dedicated to building a better, stronger world. He will be deeply missed.

– Atlanta Jewish Film Festival

Andres Spokoiny

Dear Friends and partners,
We at the Jewish Funders Network mourn the passing of Bernard (Bernie) Marcus, a visionary philanthropist and co-founder of The Home Depot, who dedicated his life to transforming lives through his profound generosity. A long-time JFN member and supporter, Bernie’s commitment to health, education, Jewish causes, and veterans’ initiatives left an indelible mark on communities worldwide. His philanthropic legacy, rooted in the values of resilience, community support, and giving back, reflects the core principles that guided both The Home Depot and The Marcus Foundation.
Born to immigrant parents in Newark, New Jersey, Bernie’s life story is one of extraordinary perseverance and innovation. With The Marcus Foundation, he championed Jewish and Israeli causes, advanced medical research, and supported veterans. We join with all who were inspired by his dedication to a better world, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May his memory serve as a lasting blessing and inspiration to us all.

– Andres Spokoiny, President & CEO, Jewish Funders Network

StandWithUs

StandWithUs mourns the loss of Bernie Marcus, a visionary business leader, philanthropist and Zionist. Deeply committed to strengthening the Jewish community in America, he supported Israel and fought antisemitism. He supported the work of StandWithUs, empowering the next generation to be proud of their identity and support Israel. May his memory forever be a blessing and may his family be comforted among the mourners of Zion.

– StandWithUs

The Breman

We are heartbroken by the passing of Bernie Marcus at the age of 95. His legacy of humility, generosity, and deep commitment to both the Jewish and Atlanta communities will live on. Bernie’s vision helped shape countless lives, from his support of Israel and Jewish education to his transformative impact on Atlanta through various initiatives. He prioritized people, relationships, and compassion over everything, leaving behind a lasting example for us all. Baruch Dayan Emet – May his memory be a blessing.

– The Breman

Hillels of Georgia

Yesterday, the Jewish community lost an incredible advocate and philanthropist. Bernie Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot, was a champion of Isreali and Jewish causes, especially Georgia. Hillels of Georgia is deeply grateful for the generosity Bernie and his family shared with us. From helping to build the Marcus Hillel Center at Emory and the Orkin Hillel Center at UGA, located on the Marcus Campus, to being the first recipient and namesake of the Billi & Bernie Marcus Visionary award in 2018 – Bernie’s impact lives on in the lives of students inspired to live vibrant Jewish lives and strengthen their connection to Isreal. May his memory be a blessing.

– Hillels of Georgia

Chris Clark

Bernie Marcus was a visionary leader in Georgia history. As a co-founder of The Home Depot, he revolutionized the retail industry, making the company’s orange apron an iconic corporate symbol. Bernie’s impact went beyond business; his generous contributions to organizations like the Georgia Aquarium, Grady Hospital, Georgia Tech, and the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta have made Georgia a better place to live. His philanthropic legacy continues through the Marcus Foundation. The Georgia business community honors Bernie for his dedication to our state, championing free enterprise, and enriching the associates of The Home Depot. Our thoughts are with Bill, the Marcus family, and all who were touched by Bernie.

– Chris Clark, Georgia Chamber President & CEO

Jared Powers

The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (Marcus JCC) mourns the loss of Bernie Marcus, a visionary philanthropist, devoted community leader, and beloved friend to our agency and the entire Jewish community. Bernie’s enduring generosity and unwavering philanthropic support to the Marcus JCC transformed our organization in ways beyond measure, ensuring that our agency remained innovative, vibrant, inclusive, and a safe hub for Jewish life. His tremendous philanthropy shaped the Marcus JCC’s past and present and has inspired countless individuals and future generations to celebrate their Jewish values and connect with each other. His legacy lives on in the spaces he helped create, the lives he impacted, and the community he strengthened. We are deeply grateful for his lifetime of leadership and philanthropic investments, both to our organization and our greater community. His generosity and extraordinary vision no doubt impacted hundreds of thousands of people served by the Marcus JCC over the decades. The entire Jewish community in Atlanta is better for having Bernie Marcus as its champion and role model.

– Jared Powers, CEO of the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, on behalf of the Marcus JCC

Israel Democracy Institute

The Israel Democracy Institute mourns the loss of its founder and International Chair, Bernard (Bernie) Marcus of blessed memory. Bernie Marcus was a giant of American business and philanthropy. His extraordinary dedication to the future of the Jewish people and the State of Israel was motivated by a concern that both were increasingly in jeopardy. The “Who Is a Jew” crisis of the 1980s convinced him that the primary threat to Israel’s survival and prosperity was internal. It was this insight that drove Mr. Marcus, while still CEO of The Home Depot, to join Secretary George Shultz (OBM) and Dr. Arye Carmon and establish an institute devoted to strengthening the institutions of Israeli democracy.

– Israel Democracy Institute