Tributes to 'leader, friend and legend' as east Donegal businessman Maxi McCreary dies

The funeral will take place on Tuesday of highly respected east Donegal businessman Maxi McCreary.

Mr McCreary, late of Glebe House, Ballinacor, Killygordon, passed away on Saturday, surrounded by his loving family.

He was the face of the J McCreary & Co hardware store now known as Topline McCrearys, for decades. He took over from his father Willie in the late 1970s with the firm having been established back in 1860 by Johnston McCreary. 

He oversaw the development of the business and it was moved to a 12,000 superstore in 2015.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the loss of the boss man, our dad, husband, leader, friend and legend, Maxi McCreary,” Topline McCrearys said in a tribute.

“He lived, breathed and loved everything business and community. There was nothing he didn't know about the building trade, and there was nothing he couldn't put his hand to. 

“Dad lived for bettering the community, bringing people together and lending a hand when needed.

“The loss of dad can't be put into words. It's a hole that will never be filled and a memory that will live on through the business, his children and his grandchildren. Family meant everything to him.”

The shop will be closed on Tuesday for his funeral and the tribute added: “He won't be happy at the closing of the shop but we will send him out in style. Rest in peace dad.”

He was also a well regarded figure in many community groups and events.

He is predeceased by his parents Kathleen and William, son Wesley, brother Derek and brother-in-law Tom. 

Maxi will be deeply missed by his loving wife Louise, sons Darren (Lorraine), Brian, daughter Maxine (John). Much loved granda of Caitlín, Sophie, Josh, James and Ben. Sadly missed by his sisters Muriel (Jimmy), Frankie, Wendy (Robert), sister-in-law Anne (Peter) and their daughter Kerry, the wider family circle, all Topline McCreary staff and his many friends.

A Service of Thanksgiving will take place at Donoughmore Presbyterian Church, Liscooley at 2pm on Tuesday, followed by burial in the adjoining graveyard.