In Loving Memory of the Crew of the Lily Jean
It is with profound sorrow that we honor the lives of the seven individuals who tragically lost their lives aboard the commercial fishing vessel Lily Jean, which sank Friday in the frigid waters 25 miles off Cape Ann, Massachusetts. The U.S. Coast Guard has identified the victims as Captain Accursio “Gus” Sanfilippo, Paul Beal Sr., Paul Beal Jr., John Rousanidis, Freeman Short, Sean Therrien, and NOAA fisheries observer Jada Samitt. This devastating loss has left families, friends, and the maritime community mourning deeply.
The events of that fateful morning began around 6:50 a.m., when Coast Guard watchstanders received an emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) alert registered to the 72-foot commercial fishing vessel. Coast Guard crews immediately attempted to contact the Lily Jean, and upon receiving no response, issued an urgent marine information broadcast (UMIB) to alert vessels and authorities of the emergency.
Over the following 24 hours, a massive search and rescue effort spanned 1,047 square miles, involving multiple aircraft, cutters, and small boats. Debris was located near the EPIRB’s activation site, along with one body and an unoccupied life raft, signaling the extreme peril the crew had faced in those icy waters. Despite exhaustive search efforts, Coast Guard officials determined on Saturday that all reasonable measures had been exhausted, and the crew members were presumed dead.
Captain Accursio “Gus” Sanfilippo, a fifth-generation commercial fisherman, dedicated his life to the sea. He, along with his crew, gained national recognition in 2012 through the History Channel show Nor’Easter Men, which showcased the courage and skill required to fish in dangerous conditions off the New England coast. Gus’s passion for fishing and commitment to his crew exemplified the resilience, grit, and camaraderie that define commercial fishing—a profession as rewarding as it is perilous.
The loss of Paul Beal Sr. and Paul Beal Jr., John Rousanidis, Freeman Short, Sean Therrien, and Jada Samitt is equally heart-wrenching. Each of them contributed their expertise, energy, and dedication to the mission of the Lily Jean, facing the hazards of the sea with courage and determination. Jada Samitt, as a NOAA fisheries observer, carried out her work with professionalism and passion, ensuring that the region’s fisheries were monitored responsibly. Together, this crew represented the best of human endurance, teamwork, and devotion to their craft.
The tragic sinking of the Lily Jean serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by commercial fishermen and the courage required to pursue such a life. The sea can be unforgiving, yet those who venture into its waters do so with unwavering dedication to their livelihood, their communities, and each other. These seven lives, though lost too soon, leave behind a legacy of bravery, resilience, and commitment.
To the families and loved ones of Captain Sanfilippo, Paul Beal Sr., Paul Beal Jr., John Rousanidis, Freeman Short, Sean Therrien, and Jada Samitt, we extend our deepest condolences. May you find comfort in your memories, strength in one another, and peace in knowing that their courage and dedication will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, brave souls of the Lily Jean.
Your legacy lives on in the stories of your courage, the hearts of those who loved you, and the sea you gave your lives to. 🕊️
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