Darrell Thomas: Dead man's savings thrown from a helicopter, raining cash at his own funeral in Detroit
Darrell 'Plant' Thomas, 58, died from Alzheimer's on June 15 and had a traditional funeral on June 27 in East Detroit.
But the beloved car wash owner had a surprise in mind, and after the ceremony a helicopter flew over Mr Thomas' business, Airport Express Lube & Service, and showered locals with cash and rose petals.
His sons had crafted the surprise according to their father's dying wish to give back to his local community one final time.
In a Facebook post, Crystal Perry, Mr Thomas' niece, said her uncle dropped more than $7500.
She said this act was a 'final expression of love from him to the community'.
'He was a giver. Yesterday was simply a farewell tribute to an east-side legend.'
Footage shows the helicopter making it rain cash over the streets, capturing the screams of delight from passers by.
Lisa Knife, an employee of Mr Thomas' business, told Detroit News that all six lanes of traffic along Gratiot Avenue came to a standstill.
'There was no fighting, none of that,' Ms Knife said. 'It was really beautiful.'
She said she admired the reverence of the people who took part in the cash grab, and said everyone got a little bit.
Videos and photos of the surprise took off on social media, with friends and family remembering the generous spirit of Mr Thomas.
'Long live Plant, an east-side legend, your last ride was everything, you will be truly missed,' one Facebook user wrote.
'His funeral was a celebration of his life. It included a block party, and a helicopter that dumped thousands of dollars onto the streets below. His final wish was to bless others. Rest In Peace,' one Instagram user wrote.
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