Grafton Street became an emptier place with the passing of Thom McGinty, also known as The Diceman. But while he may have faded from the memories of some, his presence can still be felt throughout Ireland.
“Some people wouldn’t have the balls to do what he did,” said Christina Dempsey, a flower stall holder on Grafton Street. She remembers him as a “big fella”, around six feet tall, and even taller with heels on. The mention of his name brings a smile to her face.
After his death in 1995, the stall holders and various shops on Grafton Street pitched in to help pay for his funeral costs. “Everyone gave a helping hand,” Christina said. They carried him one last time up and down the length of Grafton Street before he was buried in Glasnevin Cemetery.