Sydney

William Junior Lucas, lovingly known as ‘Winkie,’ age 72, of Sydney, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney.

Born on May 9, 1953, in Sydney, Winkie was a cherished son, brother, and friend. He was known for his kind heart, quiet strength, and unwavering loyalty. With an easy presence and gentle nature, Winkie had a way of making people feel comfortable simply by being himself.

Winkie was predeceased by his parents, William and E. Jeanette (Mintus) Lucas, and by his brothers, Roland Callendar and John Lucas.

Winkie is survived by his sisters, Esther and Karen (Blair); brothers, Curtis, and Donald; several nieces and nephews; and his longtime best friend, Ray Clemes, who held a special place in his life.

Winkie enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces in March 1975, serving for a short period. He later worked at Membertou Environmental Services as a cleaner for 19 years, retiring with pride. Winkie valued his work greatly and took satisfaction in doing his job well.

In his free time, Winkie enjoyed fishing, playing darts, eating out, and watching sports. He shared his mother’s love of tea and never turned down a cup. One of his favorite meals was fish and chips, and he and his friend Ray made it a tradition to visit different restaurants in search of the best fish and chips in town.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the ICU team and the 4-C team for the care, guidance, and compassion they provided to Winkie and his loved ones. A special thank you is also extended to Nicole Francis, Winkie’s former supervisor, for her kindness and continued support.

To those who knew him best, Winkie was more than a nickname—it was a reflection of his personality and the special place he held in so many hearts. William Junior Lucas will always be remembered as Winkie, and as he would often say with a smile. “My name is Winkie, not William.”

Visitation for the late Winkie Lucas will be held at the Pier Community Funeral Home, Whitney Pier, 1092 Victoria Rd. (entrance on Church Street) from 4 – 7 p.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026. A celebration of Winkie’s life will be held in the funeral home in the All Faith Chapel on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 2 p.m. with Deacon Rhonda Crawford officiating. Interment will take place Forest Haven Memorial Gardens, Sydney at a later date.

For those unable to attend, Live Streaming will be available on our website. Click Here:  https://www.facebook.com/35925689617/live/

Donations in memory of Winkie may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.

Online Condolences

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in their time of sorrow. Winkie was a thoughtful person. Rest in Peace
From:  Janice Crawley (Nichols Family)