By David 
Arthur Blank is synonymous with business success, visionary leadership, and philanthropy. At 82 years old in 2025, Blank has amassed a staggering fortune estimated at $7 billion, securing his place as one of Georgia’s wealthiest individuals. As the co-founder of Home Depot, he revolutionized the home improvement industry, creating an empire that reshaped the retail landscape. Beyond business, Blank has made an indelible mark on the world of professional sports, owning both the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United. However, his influence extends beyond commerce—he is a dedicated philanthropist, father of six, and an advocate for community development.
Early Life and Education: From Queens to Corporate Leadership
Arthur Blank was born on September 27, 1942, in Queens, New York, to Jewish parents Molly and Max Blank. Raised in a working-class household alongside his older brother, Michael, Blank learned the values of perseverance and dedication from an early age.
After attending Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan, Blank pursued higher education at Babson College, where he graduated in 1963 with a business degree. His early career path took him through various financial and retail roles before he co-founded one of America’s most successful corporations.
The Birth of Home Depot: Revolutionizing Retail
Blank’s professional journey began in accounting at Arthur Young and Company, later transitioning to executive roles at Daylin Corporation. While working at Handy Dan Home Improvement Centers, he collaborated with Bernard Marcus, who was serving as CEO at the time. In a pivotal turn of events, both Blank and Marcus were fired in 1978, an incident that turned into an opportunity for reinvention.
Instead of seeing their termination as a setback, Blank and Marcus, along with Ron Brill and Pat Farrah, founded Home Depot in 1979. With initial funding from investment banker Ken Langone, they introduced a groundbreaking concept: large-scale, warehouse-style home improvement stores catering to both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors.
The company took off, going public in 1981 and joining the New York Stock Exchange in 1984. By 1989, Home Depot had surpassed Lowe’s to become the leading home improvement retailer in the U.S. Blank served as president for 19 years before taking over as CEO, ultimately retiring in 2001 after establishing a global retail powerhouse.
Arthur Blank and Atlanta’s Sports Legacy
Following his retirement from Home Depot, Blank set his sights on professional sports. In 2002, he purchased the Atlanta Falcons from Taylor Smith, ushering in a new era of investment and innovation. His leadership focused on improving player development, infrastructure, and fan engagement.
Two years later, he expanded his sports portfolio by acquiring the Arena Football League’s Georgia Force and relocating the team to Atlanta. However, his most significant sports achievement came in 2014 when he founded Atlanta United FC, Atlanta’s first Major League Soccer (MLS) team.
Under Blank’s ownership, Atlanta United quickly rose to prominence, securing the MLS Cup in 2018 and setting records for fan attendance. The team plays at the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which it shares with the Falcons, showcasing Blank’s vision for integrating Atlanta’s sports culture under one roof. He continues to oversee his sports enterprises through AMB Group, LLC, which manages his extensive holdings.
Philanthropy: A Commitment to Giving Back
Arthur Blank’s influence extends far beyond business and sports. He is the chairman of The Arthur Blank Family Foundation, which has donated millions to causes related to education, healthcare, social justice, and environmental conservation.
One of his most notable contributions came in 2020, when he pledged $200 million to the construction of a new Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta hospital, set to open in 2025. The facility will bear his name, reflecting his deep commitment to children’s healthcare.
Blank is also a signatory of The Giving Pledge, committing to donate at least half of his wealth to charitable causes. His philanthropic vision sets him apart as a leader who understands that success is measured not only by wealth but also by the positive impact on society.
Personal Life: Family, Marriages, and Luxury Estates
Despite his remarkable success, Blank’s personal life has seen its share of challenges. He has been married and divorced multiple times:
- First marriage: Diana Latow (three children: Kenny, Dena, and Danielle) – divorced in 1993.
- Second marriage: Stephanie Wray (three children: Joshua, Max, and Kylie) – divorced in 2014.
- Third marriage: Angela Macuga (married in 2016, divorced in 2019).
Blank also owns several luxurious properties, including Mountain Sky Guest Ranch and West Creek Ranch near Yellowstone National Park in Montana. Additionally, he owns multiple PGA TOUR Superstores, further diversifying his business ventures.
Arthur Blank’s Lasting Legacy
Arthur Blank’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and generosity. From co-founding Home Depot to redefining Atlanta’s sports scene, he has continuously demonstrated his ability to lead and inspire.
At 82 years old, Blank remains actively involved in business, philanthropy, and sports. Whether through his ownership of the Falcons and Atlanta United, his charitable contributions, or his entrepreneurial spirit, his legacy is far-reaching.
His story is a reminder that true success is not just about accumulating wealth—it’s about leaving a lasting impact on communities, industries, and future generations. With a $7 billion fortune, Arthur Blank continues to shape the world in ways that extend far beyond business.