Robin McLaurin Williams was born on July 21, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up to be one of the most beloved comedians of his time.
His death came as a shock to all in August 2014 when the actor was found unresponsive in his California home at the age of 63. Williams died of suicide by hanging, which was attributed to Lewy body disease. The little known disease is a form of dementia, and Williams’ widow, Susan Schneider Williams, called the affliction a “terrorist inside [the] brain.”
This year, Williams would’ve turned 69 years old.
As an homage to her father, Williams’ daughter, Zelda Williams, pledged to donate $69.69 to multiple homeless shelters in the Los Angeles and San Francisco areas.
“Today would’ve been Dad’s 69th birthday, so to honor him (& that glorious number), I will be donating $69.69 to as many local homeless shelters as I can,” Zelda wrote Tuesday on Twitter. “Join me if you like, but regardless, know I am wishing you all at least one hearty, immature belly laugh on Dad today.”
Today would’ve been Dad’s 69th birthday, so to honor him (& that glorious number), I will be donating $69.69 to as many local homeless shelters as I can. Join me if you like, but regardless, know I am wishing you all at least one hearty, immature belly laugh on Dad today ♥️
— Zelda Williams (@zeldawilliams) July 21, 2020
The 30-year-old posted screenshots of her multiple donations to at least four homeless shelters and three LGBTQ organizations.
“I cannot express to you how deeply this would’ve touched Dad,” Zelda wrote on Twitter. “He loved the homeless, spent much of his life trying to help them, to uplift them, to have them be treated with dignity instead of disdain. Thank you for doing so in his name. Thank you, for keeping his kindness alive.”
Many inspired fans posted their own receipts after donating to organizations in Williams’ honor.
Nice.
— 🤔 (@TenteDaMan) July 21, 2020
Thanks for the fabulous idea. Your dad brought me a lot of laughs as a kid and young adult so I’ve done what I can to contribute. pic.twitter.com/KDCLEfEiHi
I’ve got you covered! Have a wonderful rest of your day ♥️ pic.twitter.com/RxIQDHD1Nx
— Zelda Williams (@zeldawilliams) July 21, 2020
Zelda is one of two children from Williams’ 20-year marriage to his second wife, Marsha Garces.
Cox Media Group