For almost 60 years Tom Bravin dressed up as Father Christmas to distribute presents to over 4,500 underprivileged children around the city.
The former RAF communications worker shunned praise and kept his identity a secret, calling himself Mr X.
Friends and family have vowed to carry on Mr Bravin's work in his memory.
When the strain of personally delivering so many gifts became too much for him, Mr Bravin recruited "Santa's Little Helpers", who in turn were sworn to secrecy.
Mr Bravin's son Terry said: "What a legacy he's left us - I am really proud of him.
"We have got a team of people to make sure his appeal is still going."
Neighbour Kat Thomas added: "What a kind heart. He brought so much joy to so many children and I will continue to support this cause as long as it is running."

The 29-year-old pedestrian was struck by a silver Renault Clio on the B2173 Maidstone Road, near the junction with Hockenden Lane, just after 22:00 GMT.
He was pronounced dead at the scene and his next of kin have been informed, Kent Police said.
The driver of the car was injured. Witnesses are being urged to come forward.

White, 26, has 22 international caps and will join the Premiership club from French Top 14 side Montpellier.
He has also previously played Super Rugby in his homeland for Brumbies.
"When a player of Nic's quality becomes available, and he shows an interest in coming to the club, you have to act quickly," said Exeter boss Rob Baxter.
Back row Freeman, also 26, started the Championship campaign as a vice-captain at Jersey, but has been promoted to skipper since an injury to Pierce Phillips.
"I personally think he's one of the stand-out contributors in the back row in the Championship, and he potentially fills a slot in a Premiership side," Baxter added.

13 August 2016 Last updated at 10:12 BST
She has become Britain's first woman ever to win a trampolining medal at the Olympics.
Bryony took silver place on Friday with a score of score of 56.040, just behind Canada's Rosie MacLennan.
The 25-year-old said that she hadn't expected to win a medal at all, but her performance in the final had been the best she'd done all year.
Now she wants more kids to get involved in the sport, and says that it's about a lot more than just winning medals.
Watch Ricky's interview with her.
The mystery identity of Swansea's own secret Santa has finally been revealed by his family, after the 92-year-old died this week.
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A man has died after he was hit by a car in Swanley on Saturday night.
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Exeter have signed Australia scrum-half Nic White and Jersey Reds' captain James Freeman on two-year contracts, starting from next season.
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Team GB silver medallist Bryony Page says she hopes more kids will be inspired to take up trampolining after her success in Rio.