In a heart-wrenching event that has deeply shaken the community of St. George, Maine, friends and family are preparing to hold a maritime celebration on Sunday to honor the life of Sunshine Stewart, a 48-year-old woman who tragically lost her life. Stewart went missing in July while paddleboarding on Crawford Pond, a beloved summer destination in Union. Her disappearance culminated in a grim discovery: her body was found, leading to the arrest of 17-year-old Deven Young from Frankfort, Maine, who has been charged with her murder. This shocking case has not only instilled sorrow in the community but has also stirred questions about justice and the circumstances surrounding her untimely death.
The memorial service, referred to as a “maritime celebration of life,” is set for 10:30 a.m. in the Tenants Harbor section of St. George, where Stewart had resided. Organizers have planned a procession of boats, a fitting tribute to a woman whose radiant spirit resonated with anyone who crossed her path. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, event promoters expressed their intention to gather family, friends, and community members on the sea to celebrate the life of “Sunny” Stewart. The emotional commemoration underlines the collective mourning of a bright light extinguished too soon, and hopes to provide solace to all who cherished her.
The legal proceedings surrounding Stewart’s death are ongoing. The Office of the Maine Attorney General seeks to prosecute Young as an adult, a request that will require a ruling from a judge. Young’s initial court appearance resulted in him entering a denial to the murder charge. While his attorney, Jeremy Pratt, has chosen not to comment on the case, the investigation remains active. Authorities have refrained from disclosing specific details about the incident, including any potential motive, leaving the community grappling with unanswered questions and a desire for clarity.
In terms of the details surrounding Stewart’s death, the Maine State Police have stated that a medical examiner determined the cause to be strangulation and blunt force trauma. These findings paint a harrowing picture of the circumstances that led to her demise, highlighting not only the brutality of the crime but also the need for a thorough investigation. The pond, where Stewart was last seen, is popular among boaters and fishermen, making the incident all the more shocking in a location that embodies a sense of leisure and community.
As the community remembers Sunshine Stewart in light of this tragedy, friends and loved ones portray her as a person of unparalleled spirit and loyalty. Described by lifelong friend Bethany Leach Parmley as a “really loyal, wonderful friend,” Stewart’s diverse career path was marked by her passion for nature and the sea. Friends have remembered her not just for her roles as a biologist, fisherman, and carpenter, but also for her deep connection to the ocean and to the outdoors. Their collective memories paint a portrait of a remarkable individual whose life was dedicated to her passions and friendships.
The upcoming memorial is expected to be a moment of healing for the community, coming together in remembrance and support. It serves not only as a tribute to Stewart’s vibrant life but also as a collective stand against violence and loss in their community. As the investigation continues and legal proceedings unfold, the memory of Sunshine Stewart will undoubtedly inspire both grieving and celebration among those she touched throughout her life. The maritime service allows attendees to reflect on her legacy while fostering unity in the face of tragedy.
