After John Lock - whose grandchildren attend Willoughby school in Bourne - died in February from a long-term illness his family asked mourners to remember 'Johnny' by donating funds to the school.
Now Mr Lock's widow Ruth and daughter Jacqui Wells have handed over £300 raised from donations to Willoughby. The funds will go towards helping the special school's bid to get specialist status.
Willoughby needs £20,000 for its application to government, with £11,000 raised since the appeal began last November. If the school obtained specialist status it would be able to get a £100,000 government grant and extra funding for each pupil.
Headteacher Adam Booker said, "The Lock family have always been great supporters of the school, and whilst it has been a horrendous few months for the family we are honoured that they thought of us during these dark times. I am deeply honoured to accept this money on behalf of John and his family."
Mr Booker says the response to the appeal - which has to be submitted in four months - has been tremendous. "Remember we have 74 pupils from a wide geographical area, so the support from groups and individuals has been stunning. As a school we can't believe the response to our cause, we are amazed."
To make a donation, make cheques payable to Willoughby School and send to the school at South Road, Bourne PE10 9JE, or call Lea Mason on 01778 425203.