Tributes paid to ‘one of life’s true gentlemen’ as Ballymena businessman Sammy Small passes away

Sammy Small

Tributes have been paid following the death of respected Ballymena businessman and family man Sammy Small, whose vision and dedication helped build the well-known flooring business Smallcost from humble beginnings into a trusted household name across Northern Ireland.

Mr Small passed away peacefully on 6 January 2026 at Carnmoyne Residential Home in Ahoghill, surrounded by his loving family.

In a heartfelt family statement, his loved ones paid tribute to a man whose work ethic, kindness and character left a lasting impression on both his family and the wider community.

“We are very saddened to inform you of the passing of our wonderful father and grandfather, Sammy Small.”

They reflected on his remarkable business journey, which began more than five decades ago.

“Sammy started Smallcost over 50 years ago in a little coal shed and has watched his business grow into two successful stores, Ballymena & Coleraine. People from up and down the country know the name Sammy Small and Smallcost has had a place in many homes throughout generations.”

Founded in 1972, Smallcost grew steadily under Mr Small’s guidance into a trusted family flooring company, with stores in both Ballymena and Coleraine, serving generations of customers and becoming synonymous with reliability and personal service.

Beyond his business achievements, Sammy Small was remembered above all as a devoted family man.

A funeral notice issued by James Henry Funeral Services described him as a “much loved husband of Irene, loving father of David and James, father-in-law of Liz and Joanne, devoted grandfather” to his many grandchildren, as well as a dear brother, brother-in-law and uncle.

The family have extended an open invitation to those who knew and loved him to attend a service celebrating his life.

“We welcome everyone who knew and loved our father & grandfather to join us at James Henry Funeral Parlour at 1:30pm on Sunday 11th January for a service of thanksgiving, burial at Ballee Cemetery. Refreshments afterwards at Tullyglass House Hotel.”

The funeral service will take place at Henry’s Funeral Parlour, 100 Broughshane Street, Ballymena, followed by interment at Ballee Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome to call at the family home on Wednesday 7th, Thursday 8th and Friday 9th January from 2pm to 8pm.

In line with the family’s wishes, family flowers only are requested, with donations in lieu, if desired, in support of Air Ambulance N.I. Donations may be sent via James Henry Funeral Services or made online:

Donate here

The family’s tribute concluded with words that have resonated deeply across the local community:

“One of life’s true gentlemen, always loved & forever remembered.”

As news of his passing has spread, many have reflected on the quiet legacy left by a man whose name became part of everyday life in homes across Northern Ireland — a legacy built not only on business success, but on integrity, warmth and family values.