Nichola Margaret Precious

She is survived by her loving husband, Bruce, with whom she shared 18 wonderful, fun filled years of marriage. Nichola was a devoted and loving mother to their two treasured daughters, Zoe and Rachel, who were the light of her life. She found such joy in being part of their lives — watching their sports games, concerts and school events, always showing up with pride and enthusiasm.

Nichola earned her degree in Commerce from Dalhousie University and went on to work for the Port of Halifax, where her warmth and energy left a lasting impression. After the birth of her daughters, she followed her dream of combining her business acumen with her love of children and delved into the world of children’s art. She first ran a 4Cats art studio before going on to create Artworks, her own, signature workshop that became a joyful, inspiring space in the community. Her studio has become a welcoming environment where children, friends and families come together to create and celebrate.

Nichola was a passionate board-game enthusiast, a competitive sports player, and a multitasker extraordinaire. What she could cram into a day would send most people into a tailspin. But that was all normal for her. She loved to celebrate any occasion and was generous beyond words, always thinking of others before herself. Known for her big heart and enormous smile, Nichola would light up a room with her presence.

Nichola had a wicked sense of humour and was unapologetically herself. She was the very definition of authenticity and had a natural gift for connecting with people. She touched so many lives.

Nichola is survived by her parents, Anthony and Wendy McGuinness; her sisters, Samantha McGuinness (Shawn Plancke), Penny (Tim Church); her mother-in-law Elizabeth Precious; her sister-in-law, Susan Precious (Fritz Gaerdes) and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. She was also a loving aunt to Simon, Hugh, Santiago, Téa, Fiona, Pedita and Lubanzi, and a trusted friend to many. She was always thoughtful and sincere and was the fun aunt who thought nothing of packing the children into her big van and taking them off for a day of adventure. They all adored her!

The gallery of life has lost a masterpiece. Nichola’s colours will remain vivid in our minds.

A private family memorial service has been held. A celebration of Nichola’s life will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025 from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Prince George Hotel, Halifax.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society Run for the Cure, in Nichola’s memory.