On October 9, the world bid farewell to Charles “Chuck” Feeney, an Irish American tycoon, and philanthropist whose legacy is etched in the annals of global generosity. Feeney, who amassed his wealth co-founding Duty Free Shoppers (DFS) in 1960, passed away at 92, leaving behind a profound impact on the philanthropic landscape.

Feeney’s philanthropic journey was characterized by a unique commitment to “giving while living.” In 2011, he joined The Giving Pledge, an initiative spearheaded by luminaries like Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, and Melissa French Gates. The Pledge encourages the ultra-wealthy to dedicate a substantial portion of their fortunes to addressing society’s most pressing issues. For Feeney, this meant actively engaging in philanthropy during his lifetime, a principle he ardently advocated.

In a poignant letter on The Giving Pledge’s website, Feeney implored fellow donors to immerse themselves in sustained philanthropic efforts, emphasizing the unparalleled satisfaction derived from improving the human condition while alive. His commitment served as a cornerstone of inspiration for The Giving Pledge, earning praise from Buffett, who lauded him as a role model.

Feeney’s approach to life extended beyond philanthropy; it was rooted in frugality. Despite his immense wealth, he lived modestly in a rented San Francisco apartment, which Forbes likened to the austerity of a freshman dorm room. His lifestyle, shaped by the values instilled by his parents during the Great Depression, included signature habits like wearing a $15 watch, using plastic bags as a briefcase, and opting for economy class travel. As he famously said, “Flying in the front of the plane doesn’t get you there any sooner.”

The philanthropist’s frugality also reflected in his choice to eschew car and homeownership over the last 30 years. Feeney’s commitment to a humble lifestyle served as a powerful example, challenging the conventional trappings associated with immense wealth.

Feeney’s philanthropic journey had its roots in early entrepreneurial endeavors. Enrolling in Cornell’s School of Hotel Administration in 1952 with support from the G.I. Bill, he displayed an entrepreneurial flair that manifested in a profitable sandwich business he founded on campus, earning him the moniker “the sandwich man.” In 1960, Feeney and Robert Miller co-founded DFS, starting by selling to U.S. Navy sailors and later expanding globally. Eventually, DFS became the world’s largest seller of luxury goods.

Cornell University, where Feeney commenced his journey as a first-generation college student, became a significant beneficiary of his success. Feeney, Cornell’s most generous donor, earned the title of the university’s “third founder” due to the magnitude of his grants.

Chuck Feeney’s legacy isn’t just one of immense wealth; it’s a testament to the transformative power of giving, the beauty of a frugal existence, and the impact of starting early on a journey of purpose. As the world mourns his p