Heartfelt messages are flooding is as the news spread that one half of Tal Lira stores founder, Joseph Sant has passed away.

Locals have commented on statuses by the company’s Facebook page, sending condolences to the family. “Rip Sur Joe,” said one. “He was a true gentleman,” said another.

Joe’s venture started alongside his brother Albert back in 1975 when the duo started selling textile materials at the market place in Birkirkara. As the years went by, the brothers realised Malta needed a shop similar to PoundLand in the UK. So, they opened up Tal-Lira and after a few years, they had a number of shops across the island.

As the years passed, the brothers decided to split the business and Joseph continued with Tal-Lira. He will be remember for the kind soul that he was, and being the entrepreneur that Malta needed.