Richard HermanWASHINGTON -
A lifelong Washingtonian who died late last year has left behind a huge fortune to a local charity and the performing arts.
Richard Herman gave $28 million to Family Matters of Greater Washington, one of the nation's oldest non-profit social services organizations.
Herman also loved the performing arts and bequeathed $15 million to the Kennedy Center to benefit the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera.
Family Matters of Greater Washington held a press conference at the National Press Club Wednesday morning to announce the gift. The organization plans to use the money to further its long support for children, families and seniors in need.
Herman lived a modest life. He spent the last few decades living in a modest co-op at the Watergate. His cousin, Betsy Paull, says Herman rarely splurged on expensive things, except for a Stingray Corvette.
"I love the image of him zipping around in that car," said Paull.
