Tributes and condolences are flowing in for Shawn Keeley, an Irish Lotto winner in his thirties, who passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in the Philippines over the weekend. Shawn became an instant millionaire in 2020 after purchasing a £1m (€1.1m) winning scratch card.

Formerly the manager of Eurospar in Dungiven, Co Derry, Shawn bought the winning ‘£50M Mega Cash Showdown’ Scratchcard from McNicholl’s Eurospar in Dungiven. While residing in the Philippines recently, news of his sudden demise has sparked an outpouring of emotional messages from friends and family online.

Expressing their shock and grief, a close friend reminisced, “Shawn had a radiant presence that could brighten any room. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family.” Another former colleague fondly remembered their time together, saying, “I am deeply saddened by this news about Shawn. Rest in peace, and my thoughts are with his family.”

Shawn’s passing was announced on social media by McLaughlin Funeral Directors, Dungiven, Co Derry, stating, “We sadly announce the sudden but peaceful passing of Shawn Keeley on May 23, 2026. Beloved son, brother, and partner, he will be deeply missed by his family and loved ones.” Funeral arrangements will be communicated later.

In memory of Shawn, donations to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust (KBRT) are welcomed in lieu of flowers. A heartfelt message from McLaughlin Funeral Directors reads, “May Saint Joseph, patron of departed souls, intercede for him.”

Reflecting on his life-changing win, Shawn recounted, “The moment I realized I had won one million pounds was surreal. It all started with a few scratchcards, and I couldn’t believe my luck when the numbers matched up.”

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