Larry Stewart: Kansas City's Secret Santa Dies at 58

Larry Stewart was an American businessman and philanthropist known as Kansas City's Secret Santa. Born on April 1, 1948, in Bruce, Mississippi, he made his money in cable television and long-distance calling.

From 1979 until 2006 he secretly handed out cash, often $100 bills, to people in need during the holidays. He gave away well over a million dollars and kept his name private until 2006, when he revealed himself after learning a tabloid was about to expose him.

Stewart died of esophageal cancer in Missouri on January 12, 2007, at age 58. After his death the Secret Santa tradition was carried on by others. He was posthumously honored with a Negro Leagues Baseball Museum award.

Achievements: Gave away over a million dollars to strangers, John Buck O'Neil Award (2006).

Birth: April 1, 1948 - Bruce, Mississippi.

Profession: Businessman and philanthropist.

Interesting Facts: His giving began after he was helped himself in a time of hardship.