In a farewell as unforgettable as the man himself, a helicopter flew over a Detroit funeral on June 27 and showered $5,000 in cash and rose petals onto the street below — fulfilling the final wish of Darrell Thomas, a beloved community figure on the city’s Eastside.
The tribute took place at exactly 1:27 PM over Showroom Shine Express, the car wash Thomas owned near Gratiot Avenue and Conner Street. His sons, Darell and Jonte, arranged the event as a last act of love from their father to the neighborhood he supported throughout his life.
A Final Gift to the Community
Thomas passed away on June 15 at the age of 58. Known for his generosity and vibrant personality, he left instructions for a farewell that reflected his giving spirit. The helicopter drop — which rained down both rose petals and $5,000 in cash — surprised onlookers and quickly went viral on social media.
Detroit police had been informed in advance about the planned flower drop, but were unaware that money would also be released. Though the Federal Aviation Administration has launched a review, local authorities have said no further investigation is underway.
“A Farewell Tribute to an Eastside Legend”
Crystal Perry, Thomas’s niece, said the gesture was a reflection of the man he was:
“This was a final expression of love from him to the community because he was a giver. Yesterday was simply a farewell tribute to an Eastside legend.”
She added that her uncle had “a different kind of heart” and would help anyone in need.
Entrepreneur and Racer
Outside his car wash business, Darrell Thomas was also a licensed professional race car driver affiliated with the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). But it was his generosity — in life and in death — that cemented his legacy in Detroit.
“He wanted to give back one last time,” Perry said. “And he did it in a way only he could.”
