Earl Winslow Johnstone

It is with great sadness and gratitude that we announce the sudden passing of Earl Winslow Johnstone on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

Born in North Sydney on June 6, 1925 he was the son of the Lloyd McKnight and Louise (Bedwin) Johnstone. Blessed with good health and longevity he reached the age of 100 years old, living his childhood, youth and adulthood on the family farm. Earl and his late wife, Yvonne shared 74 years of marriage. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend he will be greatly missed.

After graduating from Nova Scotia Agricultural College in 1946 he joined his father running the family farm along with his brother Roy. Fairholme Farm was well known in the community and dairy, poultry, vegetable crops, strawberries, hay, animal feed, as well as farm machinery sales were all part of the business. As a young farmer he became royalty when the “Potato King” crown was placed upon his head by the Cape Breton Farmers Association. After retiring from farming dad was employed at Marine Atlantic as an animal inspector.

An honest hardworking man of integrity and humour he lived a long life caring and providing for his cherished family. A thoughtful decision maker, once he made his choice no one could change his mind. We all sought out his vast knowledge and sound advice countless times and relied on his wise counsel. Farming involves working 365 days a year as animals and crops need daily attention. Leisure time was rare but when time allowed in the winter the family would go skating, skiing and coasting, and in summer cruising the Bras d'Or Lakes on his boat with family and friends. He spent many hours and overnight trips exploring the beautiful waterways of Cape Breton Island with his buddy the late Jack Gillis. Christmas was a special time of year and dad would light up the perimeter of the house and inside 4 decorated Christmas trees were part of the family tradition.

After retirement a large vegetable garden, boating, swimming, a few trips to Florida, exploring the countryside and constant lawn mowing to keep the property pristine filled in his days. Spending time with his nephew, Lloyd., the son he never had, allowed dad to continue what he loved most, splitting wood, mowing hay, helping with boat building and staying active and independent.

The move into Fairview Court at age 90, a new stage in his life which he embraced, brought an opportunity for less responsibility and new friendships. A special bond with Gary Nicholson made these years fun and filled with beautiful music and lots of laughs as they shared the same humour and wit.

Earl was predeceased by his wife, Yvonne (Tucker) Johnstone, siblings, Bill (Mabel) Johnstone, Doris (Malcolm) Parks, Mary (Dennis) Marsh, Roy (Mamie) Johnstone, and his son-in-law, Allen Sullivan.

Survived by his children, Anne Sullivan, Louise (John) Yahn, Susan (Wally) Hannem; his grandchildren, Cheryl (Jerry), Michael (Stacey), Jane (Jonah) and Louise; great grandchildren, Luke, Grace, Elias, Ian, Zoe, Nina, Helen and Claire as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Dr. Stephanie Langley for her wonderful care over the years. Sincere thanks to his care giver Mary Hunt and a special thank you to Frances Russell who provided in home care during the last few months allowing dad to stay independent in his own home until his passing.

Visitation for Earl will be held from 10-11 a.m. on Monday, February 23 at Calvary Baptist Church, North Sydney followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. with Rev. John Hannem officiating. Arrangements are under the care and direction of W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney.  Burial will take place in Lakeside Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Calvary Baptist Church or a charity of choice.  Online condolences may be sent to the family by leaving a message on the tribute wall of the obituary at www.wjdooley.com.

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