Funeral of Co Derry lottery winner to take place this week
Mr Keeley’s funeral will take place on Thursday, June 4 in St Patrick’s Church, Dungiven followed by cremation at Newtownabbey Crematorium
The funeral of County Derry lottery winner Shawn Keeley will take place on Thursday.
The Dungiven man passed away ‘suddenly but peacefully’ on Saturday, May 23 in the Philippines, where it is understood he had been residing for a number of years.
The 32 year-old set off travelling after he became a millionaire following a £1million win on a scratchcard back in 2020.
Mr Keeley, who was a former manager at McNicholl’s Eurospar store in Dungiven, had purchased the lucky ‘£50m Mega Cash Showdown’ scratchcard in the store.
Shawn’s wake commenced today (Tuesday) and will continue tomorrow (Wednesday) at his family home.
His funeral will take place on Thursday, June 4 leaving the family home at 9.10am for 10am Requiem Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Dungiven followed by cremation at Newtownabbey Crematorium at 12noon.
A fundraiser has been launched to help support Shawn’s family.
Shawn’s cousin Lee McTaggart has now set up an online fundraiser to help support the Keeley family during this ‘incredibly difficult and heart breaking time’.
The fundraiser, which has raised more than £16,000 will go toward easing any financial pressure on the family.
“The sudden and unexpected circumstances have placed a significant financial burden on the family, travel costs for close family members who need to fly to the Philippines and return home to Derry, along with other related expenses,” read a post by Mr McTaggart.
“We would like to help ease some of this pressure and allow the family to focus on being together and supporting one another.
“Any contribution, no matter how small, would be deeply appreciated and will go directly towards supporting the family during this time.
“Should there be any funds remaining after all expenses have been covered, these will be donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, a charity that supports families facing similar circumstances.
“Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support.”