Chuck Feeney, The Billionaire Who Gave Away His Wealth, Dies At 92
Chuck Feeney, an Irish-American businessman who founded the Atlantic Philanthropies, a foundation that secretly donated his entire fortune of $8 billion to various causes around the world, died peacefully at his home in San Francisco on October 9, 2023, at the age of 92.
Feeney, who made his money from the duty-free shopping business, lived a frugal and humble life, avoiding the trappings of wealth. He flew economy class, wore a $15 watch, and rented a small apartment. He was inspired by Andrew Carnegie’s essay ‘Wealth’, which advocated for the rich to give away their money while they were alive. He adopted the motto ‘Giving While Living’ and wanted to die broke.
“I see little reason to delay giving when so much good can be achieved through supporting worthwhile causes. Besides, it’s a lot more fun to give while you live than give while you’re dead,” Feeney said in a statement in 2017.
Feeney supported education, health, human rights, and reconciliation projects in many countries, especially in Ireland and Northern Ireland. He also influenced other billionaires like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett to pledge to donate at least half of their wealth.
“Chuck was a cornerstone of peace and reconciliation in Ireland and Northern Ireland. He believed in the power…
