The Toronto community of St Clair West has been plunged into a state of mourning after a popular restaurateur tragically lost his life while vacationing in Jamaica.

Owner of The Stockyards Smokehouse and Larder, 56-year-old Thomas Davis was hit by a vehicle on June 13 while in Negril.

Davis who was rushed to the hospital following the incident, later succumbed to his injuries.

A post on The Stockyards’ Instagram feed, which confirmed Davis’ passing, described him as “a generous and kind soul†who was loved by everyone who knew him.

Those who reacted to the post agreed with the characterization of Davis, who they noted made an indelible mark on the local food scene, with many sharing rave reviews for his signature burgers and buttermilk fried chicken.

“This news is beyond sad. Tom was such a great soul whose talent and influence directly impacted me and my career. In some of my most vulnerable moments in life the stockyards and Tom’s food was always there. He taught me to love fried chicken and waffles, brunch, eating alone and not giving a F—– about the food I want to eat. I remember sitting at his counter every single Sunday saying that I was going to change my life and I wanted to create what he had created. He was a humble treasure and a saint within the Toronto food scene, “ said one Instagram user.

“ His legacy will live on through the beautiful memories everyone has of him and through his food. My deepest condolences to his familyŸ™Ÿ»Ÿ™Ÿ»Ÿ™Ÿ» His star shines bright and he is dancing in the heavens, “ added another.

Following his passing a GoFundMe campaign setup by his family, which consists of his wife and daughter, raised over $10k which is expected to assist with his funeral expenses.

Davis opened The Stockyards with his wife Monique Nanton in 2009.