Community to Honor Maine Woman Killed at Crawford Pond
Friends and family of a Maine woman who tragically died at a country pond are coming together to celebrate her life this Sunday with a maritime service.
Sunshine Stewart, 48, from St. George, went missing in July while paddleboarding at Crawford Pond, a well-known summer spot in Union.
Authorities later found her deceased, and a 17-year-old from Frankfort, Deven Young, has been charged with murder in the case.
Stewart’s loved ones are referring to the memorial as “the maritime celebration of life.”
This special event will take place at 10:30 a.m. in the Tennant Harbor area of St. George, where she resided.
Organizers have planned a procession of vessels near the harbor as part of the ceremony.
“On August 10th, 2025, family, friends, and the community will gather at the sea to celebrate and remember the vibrant life of Sunny Stewart,” the announcement reads. “She brought light to everyone she met.”
The Maine Attorney General’s office is seeking to try Young as an adult, but this requires a judge’s approval. Young is scheduled to attend a status hearing on August 22nd.
Young briefly appeared in court last month, where he denied the murder allegations. His lawyer, Jeremy Pratt, chose not to provide any comments.
So far, details surrounding the incident remain scarce, and authorities have not disclosed any possible motives. Maine Police spokesperson Shannon Moss mentioned that the investigation is ongoing and will be for some time.
Stewart lived around 20 miles away from where the tragedy occurred. Crawford Pond is a favored destination for boaters and anglers, and it serves as a camping site.
Authorities confirmed that medical examiners determined the circumstances of Stewart’s death.
In the weeks following her passing, friends have remembered Stewart as an independent spirit and loyal friend, deeply passionate about the sea and outdoor life.
She had a diverse career, working as a biologist, fisherman, and carpenter, and explored various paths in her life. Lifelong friend Bethany Leach Palmley described her as “a truly loyal and wonderful friend.”
