ATLANTA — The State of Georgia is honoring the life of Home Depot co-founder Barnard Marcus after his death on Monday.
A newly signed executive order from Gov. Brian Kemp ordered flags at half-staff Thursday at both the State Capitol Building and in Fulton County as he is laid to rest.
"Bernie Marcus was an icon of the business world who created jobs and opportunities for generations of The Home Depot employees," the executive order said. "His considerable philanthropy will also reverberate through history, touching lives for the better."
In a post on X — formerly known as Twitter — Kemp says the decision is "in honor of his many contributions to our state and nation."
Beyond his work creating "the world's largest home improvement retailer," the executive order highlights Marcus' philanthropic work in Georgia, calling him a "renowned philanthropist and entrepreneur."
They highlight his support of the Georgia Aquarium through his charity, the Marcus Foundation. They say he dedicated the aquarium to the people of Georgia
"With his desire to give back to the community, Mr. Marcus established The Marcus Foundation and generously supported causes throughout the State, including envisioning and funding the Georgia Aquarium, one of the world’s largest aquariums, that he dedicated to the people of Georgia," the executive order said.
Because of that, they say "as a mark of respect for the memory" of Marcus, they will fly the flag half-staff at the state Capitol and Fulton County on the day of his funeral.
"It is fitting and proper to remember and honor Mr. Bernie Marcus’ life and generosity by lowering flags on the State Capitol Building and in Fulton County to half-staff," the executive order said.
