Tributes have been paid to a Lurgan businessman and distinguished GAA Scór figure remembered for his “infectious personality” one month after his tragic passing.
Born on 3 January 1976, Seamus (Shay) Toman attended St Brendan’s Primary School, and Lismore Comprehensive Secondary School in Craigavon, before travelling to St Mary’s University in London to study teaching.
His entrepreneurial spirit led him on to study business and he managed Pizza Hut restaurants in Dublin before managing Subway stores in Belfast.
Seamus later franchised six Subway stores in Coleraine, Lurgan, Magherafelt, Portrush and in Belfast at St George’s Market and Connswater, with four stores still trading in his name today.
Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Ald Richard Brown Stewart, said: “I met Shay back in 2008 in Subway and he persuaded me to move to Belfast and he very kindly gave me a job and let me live with him.
“We had some amazing memories over the years when I lived in Belfast and I can’t thank him enough for all that he did for me. He was the kindest person with the biggest heart, and he was a great friend.”
Moya McConnell, Chair of Éire Óg Scór, Craigavon; has paid tribute to an “infectious personality” and influential key figure who had been part of the Scór community since 1985.
Commemorating the life and contribution of their esteemed member, Moya said: “Seamus’ commitment to Éire óg Scór will always be remembered. From an early age, Seamus’ commitment and determination to Scór was second to none.
“Not only did he thrive on stage but his infectious personality also brought out the best in everyone.
“Although he competed in most disciplines, he shone in a recitation and novelty act and passed down his knowledge to young members. His recitation of ‘Slum Clearance’ had the audience captivated, it was said with such true feeling and emotion.
“He was someone I could always count on and was only a phone call away. He will be truly missed.”
Seamus was very generous and committed to charity work. He sponsored local sports clubs and amateur sports people.
He sponsored families in need and bought them Christmas presents every year. He opened the Lurgan Subway shop on Christmas Day for people with nowhere else to go and provided them with free food and drink for the whole day.
Seamus loved Eurovision and made many friends internationally from travelling extensively to host cities. He also enjoyed travelling to Spain where he tragically passed away on January 21.
Seamus is survived by his parents Sean and Helen and his siblings Shauneen and Ruairi. His family would like to thank the kind families, neighbours and friends who helped and comforted them during this difficult time.
They would also like to thank Fr Colum Wright of St Paul’s in Lurgan for a “beautiful” funeral service, alongside Louise and Ciara who provided the music, and Jack McLearnon & Son Funeral Directors for their dedication throughout the arranging of Shay’s funeral.
Seamus’ Month’s Mind Mass will be held on Saturday 21 February in St Paul’s Church, Lurgan at 7pm.
Donations in lieu, if desired, are for The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust via https://kbrtrust.com/donations/
