When Lillian Olrich died in March, her co-workers had no idea the frugal teacher was a millionaire. But, they found out this week after learning she bestowed a very generous gift to her school.
It may be surprising that a high school history teacher could save a million bucks, but she never married or had children, and friends say she lived a frugal lifestyle, the Good News Network reported.
“Ms. O” was known by generations of students at Osbourn High School in Manassas, Va., and Osbourn Park High School in the county outside of Washington, D.C.
The $1 million donation was earmarked to support a program Lillian set up years ago to provide scholarships to students.
According to the school district, the funds will also be used to support the SPARK Foundation‘s six key areas of focus areas, including STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education; social and emotional learning; digital innovation; school improvement; and educator preparedness.
Described as “a true Prince William County legend,” Lillian arrived early every day, often coming to the school at 3 a.m. She even worked through the summers—and for years she brought in food for the staff every Monday, according to the Washington Post.
Talk about a legacy!
Lillian’s impact will be felt for generations to come and in ways she probably could never imagine.
After closing his business and enduring several painful years of uncertainty regarding what to do with his life, Greg founded Forward From 50 to help men and women over 50 to live more purposeful lives by pursuing things they are passionate about. A Wisconsin native, Greg currently lives in Arizona.