Aaron Collins didn’t die a wealthy man, but he has left behind a legacy of kindness that has touched countless hearts across the nation.
After Collins unexpectedly passed away on July 7, his brother, Seth, found a copy of his will that included the young man’s final wish: Go out for pizza and give the waiter or waitress a $500 tip.
The request was one Seth Collins wanted to honor, but there was a slight problem. Aaron didn’t leave behind enough money to make his wish a reality, so Seth created a website called Aaron’s Wish to tell his brother’s story and accept donations.
Just three days after Aaron’s death, Seth and various family members were able to make his wish come true at an Italian restaurant in Lexington, Ky., where they presented their waitress with the massive tip. That action, which was later posted on YouTube, spurred a charitable movement that continues to grow.
Aaron’s family has raised $47,680, which is enough to give $500 tips to 95 servers. So far, three servers in Lexington have benefited from Aaron’s kindness. His family plans to continue surprising servers with big tips until the donations run out.
On the website, Seth describes Aaron as a sentimental soul who was touched by the small acts of kindness.
“He was generous with the limited means he had, and his last wishes were that any money he had be given freely in ways that would impact those who received it.”
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