The death of a “much-loved” Machynlleth firefighter has left a “huge void”, colleagues have said.
Tributes from fire crews across Mid Wales have been coming in after Machynlleth fire crew manager and owner of the Rag and Bone shop James Williams-Lucas, 50, died suddenly on 20 May 2021.
In a post on social media, Machynlleth fire crew said: “It’s with great sadness we announce the passing of CM James Lucas on 20 May. James was much loved by all he served with and his passing leaves a huge void in us all, and our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.
“Stand down now James and rest easy, Stn 2.”
“We send the crew, James’ friends and family our thoughts at this difficult time.”
County councillor Michael Williams said James’ death was a “big loss to the community”: “I had many a chat with James and discussions about various things. He was a very interesting man indeed.
“It’s a sad loss to his family, but also a sad loss to the town, all his friends, and his colleagues in the fire and rescue service.
“He will be sadly missed by all, by the community.”
James was the son of Gwyneth Lucas and the late Denzil Williams Lucas. He was father to his and Annie Morris-Hays’ children, Walter, Dexter and Seren Williams-Lucas; and brother of Amanda and Anthony Williams-Lucas and Diane Pym.
A private service will be held on Monday, 7 June, at Aberystwyth Crematorium.
There will be a procession from Mach fire station down the high street for a moment’s silence outside his shop, the Rag and Bone.
Times will be announced on Facebook in the coming days.
Donations are being received towards Mid & West Wales Fire Brigade and Wales Air Ambulance c/o Glyn Rees funeral directors, Dinas Mawddwy.