ST. GEORGE, Maine (AP) – The local community is coming together to honor the life of Sunshine Stewart, a 48-year-old woman from St. George, whose tragic death has left a profound impact on those who knew her. Friends and family have scheduled a maritime celebration of her life this Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in the Tenants Harbor area, where Stewart lived. The event promises a procession of vessels on the water, symbolizing the affection and memories shared with Stewart.
Sunshine Stewart went missing in July while paddleboarding on Crawford Pond, a favored destination in Union, Maine. Following extensive search efforts, her body was discovered, leading to the arrest of 17-year-old Deven Young from Frankfort, Maine, who faces murder charges in connection with her death. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of grief and support for Stewart's loved ones.
This memorial is being described as a “maritime celebration of life” by Stewart's family and friends. The memorial's organizers expressed their intent through a social media announcement, stating that on August 10, 2025, attendees would gather to remember “the radiant life of Sunshine ‘Sunny’ Stewart,” highlighting her ability to touch the lives of those around her.
The Maine Attorney General's Office has indicated plans to prosecute Young as an adult, but this decision is pending a judge's ruling. Young has already made a brief initial court appearance, entering a denial to the murder charge, although his attorney, Jeremy Pratt, has refrained from making any statements regarding the case. A status conference is set for August 22, allowing for further legal proceedings in this heartbreaking case.
As the investigation continues, authorities have shed little light on the motive behind the killing, with Maine State Police confirming that details remain sparse and the investigation is still active. It has been established that the cause of death was determined to be strangulation and blunt force trauma based on medical examiner findings.
Sunshine Stewart lived approximately 20 miles from Crawford Pond and was known to be an independent spirit with a deep-rooted love for the ocean and the outdoors. Friends have described her as a dedicated friend who had an adventurous career path, including roles as a biologist, fisherman, and carpenter. Those close to her have been vocal about their grief, remembering her as a loyal and wonderful friend.
Bethany Leach Parmley, a lifelong friend of Stewart, encapsulated the sentiment felt by many, calling her “a really loyal, wonderful friend.” This communal remembrance highlights not only the loss felt by Stewart's loved ones but also a collective effort to celebrate a life marked by passion, adventure, and connection to nature.
As the community prepares for Sunday's memorial, the procession of vessels will serve as a poignant tribute to Sunshine Stewart, ensuring that her spirit and the memories she created will continue to resonate deeply within the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her.
