‘I can’t believe he’s gone’ – Irish Lotto winner dies suddenly in Philippines

Shawn Keeley became an instant millionaire when he scooped more than €1m in 2020

Tears and tributes are flowing for Irish Lotto winner, Shawn Keeley, 30s, who passed away suddenly but peacefully on Saturday in the Phillipines.

Shawn became an instant millionaire when he scooped £1m (€1.1m) when he purchased a scratch card back in 2020.

The then manager of Eurospar in Dungiven, Co. Derry bought the winning ‘£50M Mega Cash Showdown’ Scratchcard from McNicholl’s Eurospar in Dungiven.

It is believed Shawn had been residing in the Philippines recently and since news of his sudden passing spread, friends and family have been busy posting tributes online.

“I can’t believe he’s gone,” declared one devastated friend. “Shawn was a man who could light up any room as soon as he walked into it. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.” the friend added.

A former work colleague said: “Was heart broken to hear this sad news about Shawn. I had the pleasure of working with you in eurospar and many a laugh we had. Rest in peace and condolences to all the family.”

A third person said: “Heart breaking news to hear about Shaun, he was the life and soul of many a night out and had a heart of gold too. RIP Shaun. Thoughts and prayers with all your family at this sad time.”

Shawn’s death notice was posted on social media by McLaughlin Funeral Directors, Dungiven, Co. Derry.

“We regret to inform you that the death has taken place of Shawn Keeley suddenly but peacefully on 23rd of May 2026. May he rest in peace. Late of the Philippines and formerly of 38 Lackagh Park, Dungiven, Co Derry.

“Beloved son of Tiney and Noel and loving brother of Christopher, Paul and Gauvin. Will be very sadly missed by his partner E.J. Very deeply regretted by all his aunts, uncles, cousins and the entire family circle. Wake and funeral arrangements later.

“Family flowers only, donations if wished in memory of Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust (KBRT) c/o McLaughlin Funeral Directors or you can donate online using the following link – https://buy.stripe.com/8x2bJ2bVKamq0dIdDc04811

“Saint Joseph patron of the departed souls intercede for him.”

Speaking at the time of his big win in 2020, Shawn said: “It all started when I bought a couple of £3 scratchcards on the Friday night. I won £30 on those so, as I was leaving work around 5.30pm on Saturday evening, I bought a couple of £5 scratch cards with my winnings.

“Normally I’d scratch them in the car but on this occasion, I took them home with me as I had to get ready to go to a socially distanced garden party with a few friends that night. I actually forgot about the scratch cards in my jacket pocket so when I got home, I had a shower and got ready to go out.

“Then I remembered the cards, took them out of my jacket and started scratching around 7pm. All of a sudden, I could see that my numbers matched and the card was telling me that I had won the top prize of one million pounds!”

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