Marguerite Harbert Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

Marguerite Harbert was a prominent American philanthropist and billionaire known for her deep civic engagement in Alabama and her association with the Harbert family fortune.

Below is a concise summary:

A Legacy Forged in Community and Commitment

Growing up in Birmingham, Alabama, Marguerite Jones was born on May 24, 1923, into a family with deep regional roots. Her formative years were shaped by early achievements — in athletics, scholastic leadership, and community service — foreshadowing a life oriented toward giving back.

After graduating from Birmingham–Southern College, she began professional work with the American Red Cross, directing safety programs in Jefferson County. 

Defining moments in Marguerite Harbert’s journey include:

• Leadership roles at Birmingham–Southern College and community organizations. 

• Marriage to John M. Harbert III in 1951, cementing a life shared with the founder of Harbert Corporation. 

• Decades of service on prestigious boards, including the Birmingham Museum of Art and the Smithsonian Institution Board of Regents.

The Core Pillars of Marguerite Harbert’s Wealth

Although not a business founder herself, Marguerite Harbert became one of Alabama’s wealthiest individuals through inheritance, primarily from her husband’s successful construction and investment enterprises.

The core pillars of her wealth included:

• Inheritance from Harbert Corporation stakes: Her late husband, John M. Harbert III, built a construction and engineering empire that spanned power plants, water systems, airports, and international infrastructure projects. 

• Long-term family investment holdings: These sustained and grew wealth after her husband’s passing in 1995. 

• Estate valuation by leading financial outlets: Estimates from Forbes and other reputable sources place her net worth between $1.2 B and $1.5 B. 

Marguerite Harbert Relationships & Personal Life

Marguerite’s personal life was anchored in family and long-standing relationships.

• She met John M. Harbert III in grade school.

• The couple married on June 30, 1951, and remained partners for over four decades.

• Together they had three children:

  • John Murdoch Harbert IV

  • Raymond J. Harbert

  • Marguerite Harbert Gray 

• After her husband’s death in 1995, she continued her philanthropic focus while maintaining an active social presence in community affairs.

Key insights into Marguerite Harbert’s relationships and personal life:

• Long-term marriage grounded in mutual interests like travel, golf, and outdoor pursuits.

• Deep devotion to family and especially advocacy for her eldest son, born with Williams syndrome.

• Active participation in social and cultural clubs throughout her life. 

Beyond Wealth: Lifestyle & Interests

Beyond the stewardship of substantial inherited wealth, Marguerite Harbert embodied a lifestyle rooted in culture, service, and passion.

• Served on boards of educational, artistic, and medical institutions. 

• Enthusiast of golf, tennis, bridge, and outdoor life. 

• Member of organizations including the American Needlepoint Guild and social clubs.

Beyond career success, Marguerite Harbert led a lifestyle that reflected both purpose and passion, including:

• Philanthropic dedication to healthcare and community welfare.

• Active support of arts and education institutions. 

• Personalized creative pursuits, like needlepoint. 

Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis

Although specific valuations of each asset are not publicly itemized, trusted financial and philanthropic reporting allows for a broad view:

This breakdown reflects long-term stewardship of inherited wealth rather than entrepreneurial creation of business assets.

Public Image, Legacy & Influence

Marguerite Harbert’s public image rests on her commitment to civic life, generosity, and leadership. She consistently supported arts, education, and community institutions, earning respect across Alabama and beyond.

Her legacy continues in:

• Named buildings like the Marguerite Jones Harbert Building at Birmingham–Southern College, honoring her commitment to education.

• Generational philanthropic influence through family foundations and board participation. 

Her life story illustrates how stewardship of resources can amplify social good and institutional support far beyond personal wealth.

Conclusion

Marguerite Harbert’s life journey — from Birmingham native to revered philanthropist and steward of significant inherited wealth — reflects a blend of dedication, family devotion, and community impact. Her estimated Marguerite Harbert net worth of between $1.2 B and $1.5 B underscores her role among America’s most prominent civic figures, while her relationships, birthday (May 24), and lifelong service paint a portrait of purpose beyond wealth. Her story inspires not just for its financial scale, but for its lasting influence in arts, education, and community service.