James Lachlan Edds died after the sedan his mum was driving was hit by Kristie Fiona Anne Merrett, 51, who police allege blew nearly four times the legal alcohol limit.
James's mother, Anastasia Edds, 42, was hospitalised with minor injuries but her son suffered traumatic brain injuries and died.
Now the boy's aunt, Nicole Micos, hopes to raise cash to give James "the funeral he deserves".
On a GoFundMe page, Ms Micos says James was "an incredible little legend".
"James loved kicking a ball around with Mum, (jumping) on the trampoline with his mates, eating Yiayia's cheese pie, (playing) monopoly and Uno with Dad and so much more," the aunt said.
"Tragically, James was taken from us way too soon.
"He was just 9 years old and had his whole life ahead of him."
Ms Micos said James and his mother were on their way to buy new shoes so he could kick a soccer ball he bought with his Christmas money.
After James's death, police upgraded Merrett's charges.
She faces 10 charges including aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death, high-range drink driving and possession of a prohibited drug.
Her licence has been suspended.
Facing Newcastle Local Court on Thursday, Merrett was granted bail under strict conditions not to drive or to drink alcohol or take drugs.
She was also ordered to pay a $1000 bond.
The Bellingen woman will next come before the court on January 27.
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