78 Year Old DoorDash Driver Gets Nearly Million From 38,000 Strangers After Heartbreaking Viral Video
A 78 year old Tennessee DoorDash driver received nearly million from over 38,000 strangers after a Ring camera video of him delivering went viral.
78 Year Old DoorDash Driver Richard Pulley Receives Nearly $1 Million After Viral Ring Camera Video
Richard Pulley, a 78 year old man from Manchester, Tennessee, has received a check for $965,868 after a viral video of him delivering a Starbucks order captured the hearts of millions across the country.
Pulley came out of retirement approximately 18 months ago after his wife Brenda lost her job. The couple struggled to afford her medication, which she needed to prevent dialysis, forcing Pulley to work 12 hour days as a DoorDash delivery driver. Over that time, he completed more than 6,000 deliveries.
On March 10, 2026, homeowner Brittany Smith's Ring camera captured Pulley carefully navigating her porch steps while delivering a Starbucks order. Smith posted the footage to social media, where it quickly went viral, racking up millions of views on TikTok and Facebook.
He is precious, and he is not working because he wants to; he's working because he has to.
Smith said after tracking down Pulley and learning his story. She then launched a GoFundMe campaign on his behalf, which drew donations from more than 38,000 people worldwide. DoorDash itself contributed approximately $20,000 to the fund.
On March 20, Pulley was presented with the check at a special ceremony. He and Brenda plan to use the money to purchase a new home and enjoy a comfortable retirement, though Pulley has indicated he may continue to work occasionally.
Strangers Raise Nearly $1 Million for Elderly Tennessee DoorDash Driver Forced Out of Retirement
The outpouring of generosity from complete strangers has been a testament to the power of community and compassion. Pulley's story resonated with millions who saw themselves or their own grandparents in the elderly man faithfully working to provide for his family.
The Crusader's Opinion
This is what the body of Christ looks like in action. Over 38,000 people saw an elderly man working himself to the bone just to keep his wife alive, and they did something about it. No government program. No bureaucracy. Just ordinary people moved by compassion doing what Christians have done for two thousand years: bearing one another's burdens. Richard Pulley's story is a reminder that in a world drowning in selfishness, the spirit of generosity still burns bright. God bless this man and his wife Brenda, and God bless every soul who gave.
Take Action
- If you know an elderly person in your community struggling to make ends meet, reach out and offer practical help today. A meal, a ride, or simply your time can change someone's week.
- Support elderly workers and caregivers through Meals on Wheels America, which delivers nutritious meals to seniors in need across the country.
- Consider donating to The Shepherd's Shield to support Christians facing hardship and persecution around the world.
- Share Richard Pulley's story with your church community and small group. Use it as a conversation starter about how your congregation can identify and serve vulnerable members.
- Contact your local elected officials and urge them to support policies that protect elderly Americans from financial hardship. Find your representatives at usa.gov/elected-officials.
