Chris Campbell, Man With Down Syndrome Who Worked At Same McDonald’s For 27 Years, Has Died

Jun 13, 2019 by apost team

A McDonald's employee from Georgia was recently honored in March for his 27 years of dedication to the job, reported USA Today. His name was Chris Campbell and he had Down Syndrome.

As a follow up to the story, CBS reported the unfortunate news that Chris has recently passed away.

Chris's celebration in March came a few days before World Down Syndrome Day, and Chris celebrated the day and his achievements at his favorite place: his McDonald's branch surrounded by friends, colleagues, and family, reported USA Today. He received a special trophy for his service, provided by the Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta along with cake and a certificate. The branch also donated some of that day's earnings to the charity.

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Little did anybody know that the celebration was a send-off for Chris, in a way. Sadly he passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, reported CBS, and his family has set up a touching tribute to him on GoFundMe to help pay for his funeral costs. The fundraiser reads:

"Chris Campbell was a wonderful example of the difference made by a loving family, supportive community and strong advocates.  He was a boy scout, church acolyte, community volunteer, McDonald's employee, loving son, grandson, brother, uncle, and friend. He was special in so many ways to so many people. He loved all things pirate and enjoyed celebrating life through music and laughter! His family feels an immense loss and will miss Chris' sweet smile and generous spirit."

At Chris's celebration in March, Sheryl Arno, executive director of the Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta had told the press that attitudes towards employment of people with Down Syndrome had changed dramatically over the years. She noted that society was very different when Chris started his job nearly three decades ago. For that reason, Chris is a pioneer for others with learning disabilities. 

In an interview in March with 11Alive, Chris's mother Barbara said that it was more than a job to Chris. She stated, "Not only has he been working at McDonald's, but McDonald's has also provided a support team for him. You cannot tell him not to go to McDonald's today he likes to go."

Watch the interview and more in the video below:

Rest in peace to Chris and extended sympathies to his family. Isn't his story an inspiring one? Let others know about Chris's life and help to preserve his memory.