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Lotto winner Shawn Keeley dies suddenly in Philippines as tributes pour in

Shawn Keeley, from Dungiven, Co. Derry, won 1m in a scratchcard game back in 2020 - he tragically died aged just 32 while living in the Philippines, his family said

[An individual is joyfully leaping in the air while holding a large check, surrounded by a well-manicured garden with various shrubs and trees in the background.]

Shawn Keeley passed away

Tributes have been paid to an Irish Lotto winner who died suddenly in the Philippines. Shawn Keeley, 32 became an overnight millionaire after scooping 1m (1.1m) when he bought a scratch card back in 2020.

The former manager of Eurospar in Dungiven, Co. Derry purchased the winning '50M Mega Cash Showdown' Scratchcard from McNicholl's Eurospar in Dungiven. It's understood Shawn had been living in the Philippines recently, and since word of his unexpected death emerged, friends and family have been sharing heartfelt tributes online, reports the Irish Mirror.

"I can't believe he's gone," wrote 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.

[An individual stands beside a large promotional sign with the text "LOOOKOOO" and a monetary value displayed prominently. The person holds a bottle aloft, likely celebrating a significant achievement. The background features an architectural edifice with lush greenery, suggesting an outdoor setting.]

It is believed Shawn was residing in the Philippines at the time of this sudden death.

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 shared 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.

[An individual stands in front of a building, holding a large, brightly colored lottery ticket that prominently features the text "250M LIMEGAL" and additional numerical and promotional information.]

Shawn pictured after winning 1m on a scratch card back in 2020.

"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

"Saint Joseph patron of the departed souls intercede for him."

Reflecting on 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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