Bernie Marcus, the pioneering founder of Home Depot and notable philanthropist, has died at the age of 95, as confirmed by the company.

Marcus, who redefined retail with Home Depot and was an outspoken supporter of former President Donald Trump, leaves a remarkable legacy in business acumen and philanthropy, as Breitbart reports.

The business legend started his career after attending Rutgers University's pharmacy school. His path took a dramatic turn when he was dismissed from a job, leading to a pivotal collaboration with Arthur Blank and Ron Brill.

The trio, bolstered by funding from Ken Langone, launched the first Home Depot store in Atlanta when Marcus was 49 years old.

The venture was a major success, with Home Depot rapidly becoming a vital hub for home improvement and DIY enthusiasts, transforming how Americans approached these projects.

The store, which provided a comprehensive range of building materials and household goods, had a substantial economic impact. It was instrumental in helping countless individuals launch contracting businesses and served as a resourceful space for tradesmen seeking employment opportunities.

Home Depot's Role During COVID-19 Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Home Depot stood out as a critical social space, remaining operational even as numerous other retail spaces were shuttered. This not only underscored the importance of its offerings but also its relevance within communities during challenging times.

Beyond his business endeavors, Marcus was highly regarded within the business community and frequently shared his insights as a commentator on cable news. He was candid about his political views, notably his robust support for Donald Trump, whom he backed energetically during the president's campaigns and administration.

Marcus initially supported Jeb Bush in the GOP primary before realigning his support behind Trump. In a 2016 op-ed, he articulated his belief that regulatory hurdles imposed by the government were significantly burdensome for small business owners -- an issue he believed Trump was uniquely qualified to address.

Marcus's Influential Political Support

As Trump's presidency unfolded, Marcus became a staunch defender of the administration's policies. He was notably vocal about the 2017 tax reforms, dismissing criticisms and expressing confidence that corporations and small businesses would eventually benefit from these changes.

In the context of the COVID-19 crisis, Marcus praised Trump's response for its decentralization, which allowed states a degree of flexibility in managing the pandemic according to their specific needs. He expressed his belief that the nation's COVID-19 death toll would have been substantially higher under different leadership.

Marcus continued his vocal support for Trump during the 2020 reelection campaign, making his endorsement known through various platforms, including a Fox News op-ed. He continued his advocacy in 2024, calling for Republican unity behind Trump amid deep concerns for the future of American democracy and safety.

Lasting Philanthropic Contributions

Apart from his business and political activities, Marcus was fervently dedicated to philanthropy, a commitment deeply rooted in the Jewish concept of "tzedakah," which emphasizes righteous giving. His contributions were substantial, including $250 million to construct Atlanta's aquarium.

By 2019, Marcus had declared his intention to allocate his remaining wealth primarily to charitable causes, further tangibly manifesting his philanthropic vision. He intertwined this philanthropic mission with his support for Trump's political endeavors.

On Election Day 2024, a day laden with significance as Americans cast their votes, Marcus passed away. His death on such a significant day punctuated his lifelong engagement with the political and business arenas.

Bernie Marcus's Lasting Legacy

Reflecting on Marcus's contributions, Home Depot hailed him as a "master merchant and a genius with customer service." These aspects of his career highlight both his visionary approach in retail and his unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.

Marcus's passing marks the conclusion of an impactful life journey, characterized by his transformative role within the retail sector and his fervent engagement in philanthropy and political discourse. His legacy continues to influence the business world and the communities he served through his substantial contributions to society.

Through the endurance of Home Depot and the ongoing impact of his philanthropic commitments, Bernie Marcus leaves an indelible mark, notable not only for his professional achievements but also for his impassioned advocacies and enduring contributions to public life.