Father Dollar Bill Has Died

For more than two decades during holidays, Father Chase would hand out nearly $15,000 in cash

Reverend Maurice Chase, best known as Father Dollar Bill for his charity giving to the homeless community in Los Angeles, has died at the age of 92.

Father Chase passed away Sunday evening at his home in Los Angeles, according to his family.

For more than two decades during holidays, Father Chase would hand out nearly $15,000 in cash, mostly in dollar bills. The more needy were often given $20 and many in wheelchairs received $100 bills.

"I'm happy to be here," Father Chase said once in an interview. "I come down here because Jesus prompts me to take care of the poor and the homeless. I just love it."

The money often came from charities supported by the widows of Frank Sinatra and John Wayne as well as Bob Newhart, Eli Broad, Rick Caruso, the Bob Hope foundation, and others.

People who waited in line for a donation often told him how they wanted to spend the money. Many bought hamburgers, ice cream and other treats they can't get at the shelters, according to a profile on Father Chase the Los Angeles Times.

Chase told the Times he knows they're as likely to spend it on booze and drugs but he said he doesn't care. The point is to show them that they are not forgotten.

Chase will be laid to rest in his home town of Dinuba, California during a private service, his family said.

Chase is survived by his two sisters, Mary Donaldson and Majel Prindiville.
 

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