North Texans Mourn Death Of Beloved Mall Santa

FAIRVIEW, TX — North Texans gathered Tuesday to pay respects to a man well known in the community of Fairview for his decades-long role as a beloved mall Santa. Known simply as "The Big Guy," he was much more than a holiday character to the families who visited him year after year.

The Big Guy made appearances at malls in Frisco, Allen and Fairview for almost two decades, but his regular photo shoots were canceled in early December after he suffered an undisclosed medical emergency.

After later announcing The Big Guy's passing, the mall hosted a memorial service for his "final sleigh ride."

Most touching is the seemingly endless collection of memories shared on a GoFundMe page started by Fairview Town Center. Amassing more than 15 years of photos with him, one woman, Dawn Jackson, said he brought her family something special during each holiday season.

"...He was such an important part of our traditions for 15 years — from babies to teenagers. Year after year we enjoyed seeing 'The Big Guy,' and he had such a way with my girls and such a kind heart. He brought Christmas magic to the season and taught all of us something about kindness...." Jackson wrote on GoFundMe.

Fairview Town Center declined to share The Big Guy's real name, but offered up an address to which mourners can send condolence cards. The mall booked a fill-in character and told families on its website that the photo staff was prepared to handle children's questions.

"We are working very hard to ensure that this situation is handled with love and care — and making every effort to provide a magical experience for your family," Fairview Town Center wrote on its website. "His heart was as big as Texas and he loved nothing better than to greet children and brighten their holidays."

The GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $13,000 to help cover medical expenses.

Image via GoFundMe