A Secret Santa brings holiday help to new widow of man who played Santa for decades

#eastidahonews #secretsanta #Christmas

A local Secret Santa is giving $1 million to deserving people in eastern Idaho this holiday season. Every day, from now until the end of the year, the East Idaho News elves will be delivering gifts from Secret Santa and we’ll be sharing the surprise videos here.

Sherri Empey, a first-grade teacher who used to teach seventh-grade, is known in her school community as gentle, patient and deeply devoted to her students. Even while taking extended time off this year to care for her husband, Craig, through his cancer treatments this year, she continued preparing lesson plans and staying connected with her class.

In April, Sherri and Craig lost their son. Then, on Halloween, she lost Craig — her partner not only in life but in a cherished community tradition.

For years, the couple were known locally as Santa and Mrs. Claus, appearing at schools and events each Christmas. Craig, who visited Sherri’s school annually in full Santa suit, was so convincing and kindhearted that many said he embodied the role in spirit as much as appearance. Their home transformed each December into what friends describe as a real-life Santa’s workshop.

Secret Santa heard about Sherri and asked the East Idaho News elves to pay her a visit. Check out the surprise in the video player above.

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