RVA Santa's Facebook page shared the sad news of the loss around 12:30 p.m. on Sunday.

"His legacy will live on in the countless families he touched, the cherished memories he created, and the joy he brought to every holiday season," the post reads. "His greatest gift, though, was his own family, who will carry forward the love and spirit he embodied so beautifully."

The news comes after RVA Santa announced a "new chapter" in late October, saying it was "time to hang up his red hat and officially retire from his sleigh-driving duties" because of "some health challenges."

RVA Santa was a holiday mainstay at Green Top in Ashland.

Officials with the sporting goods company posted that they were "deeply saddened by the loss" and thanked RVA Santa for "the magic and memories."

"He brought s

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