Shock and sadness following passing of Castledawson businesswoman

The funeral of a well-known and highly-respected businesswoman, who passed away suddenly on Friday, will take place tomorrow (Tuesday).

The untimely death of Helen Shivers (née Eves) has sent shockwaves through the south Derry community.

Alongside her husband Charlie, the mother-of-four, who lived in Castledawson, helped to build the foundations of the family business, Shivers Business Park.

The business park on the Hillhead Road, Toomebridge houses more than 30 businesses and employs upwards of 300 people.

In 2021, Helen was named “Northern Ireland Businessperson Of The Year” in recognition of her contribution to Northern Irish business.

A native of Co Fermanagh, Helen developed a 'strong work ethic' at an early age according to Ederney Community Development Trust, based in Helen's home village.

Paying a heartfelt tribute to the much-loved grandmother, the organisation said: “Born and raised in Gortgeran, Ederney, Helen was one of ten children in a busy and close-knit family. From an early age she developed a strong work ethic and a love of people, beginning her first job in a retail shop at just 14 years old. She thrived on meeting customers and took great pride in every role she undertook, a passion for work and enterprise that would remain with her throughout her life.

“At the age of 21, Helen left Ederney to marry her husband Charlie, a plumber, and together they settled in County Derry. In those early years, Helen played a vital role in building the foundations of the family business. Working tirelessly behind the scenes, she managed administration, purchasing and accounts, helping to run the growing operation from a humble hayshed on the farm. What began as a small family venture was driven forward by Helen’s determination, vision and unwavering belief in what they could achieve together.

“While travelling to a wedding in London, Helen spotted a derelict industrial site for sale at Toome, Co Antrim, a moment that would change the course of her working life. Seeing potential where others saw ruin, she and Charlie purchased the property and began transforming it. This marked the beginning of Helen’s successful journey into the commercial property sector. With the support of her husband and children, she helped grow the business park from a shell of old buildings into a thriving hub that now houses more than thirty-two businesses and provides employment for over 300 people.”

Helen's Requiem Mass will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10, at 2pm in the Church of St Mary, Lavey. A private cremation will follow.

Helen is survived by her husband Charlie, children Cathal, Laura, Jayne and Rachel and extended family circle.