Lyta Kathryn Gerhold Seddig; Lorraine Bunker Smart; Mark Sarro; Carolyn Anne Grant; Bruce Sweeney Astbury; Celeste Chick Cram; Ellen Keegan Hersey.
Mar 29, 2026
Note: “People We’ve Lost” is a feature of the Bar Harbor Story where we share obituaries of people that the island lost in the previous 1-2 weeks.
We’re doing this because we think everyone deserves to be remembered as widely as possible and not behind paywalls or at a cost of $500 for people mourning. We’re free.
If you have an obituary for a loved one or friend that you can’t afford to place in other spaces, please let us know, and we’ll share it here for you. We will also share obituaries that have been in other places, too. Just let us know.
This week, by request, we’ve started sharing obituaries from throughout Hancock County. This is a bit of a bigger lift for us, but we’ll try to keep doing it if it’s something that you all want. We all are so connected here.
Lyta Kathryn Gerhold Seddig
Southwest Harbor
Lyta Kathryn Gerhold Seddig, 81, of Southwest Harbor, Maine, died on August 31, 2025, from injuries she sustained in a household accident. Lyta was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on February 22, 1944, the oldest daughter of Rev. Charles Roland Gerhold and Viola Schroeder Gerhold.
Lyta graduated at the top of her 1962 Barringer High School class in Newark, NJ, and went on to attend Douglass College with a major in English, graduating with honors in 1966. It was during her senior year, at a mixer with students from Princeton University, that she met her future husband, Robert (Bob) Seddig. Lyta was married to Bob in Newark by Lyta’s father, a Lutheran minister for the deaf, on August 5, 1967. She and Bob then moved to Meadville, Pennsylvania, where Bob started teaching at Allegheny College.
Influenced by her father, Lyta went to seminary and in 1982 received a Master of Divinity (MDiv) from United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in Minnesota. Lyta was the first woman ordained as a United Church of Christ minster in Western Pennsylvania. However, she found herself in a conservative area where, at the time, women’s ordination was highly controversial. She reluctantly left the UCC denomination and courageously joined the Presbyterian Church (USA), as she was assured they would recognize her ordination. She served at several churches in NW PA and western NY, and in the mid-1990s worked as a chaplain of a Pennsylvania State women’s prison. Following that, she became the First Protestant Chaplain at Mercyhurst University in Erie, PA. Throughout her ministry, Lyta always had a commitment to justice for women and supporting women in leadership. Lyta and Bob were also drawn to the social activism and religious community of the Sisters at Mount St. Benedict Monastery in Erie, PA, and became oblates (ecumenical associates).
Lyta received a certificate in Spiritual Guidance from the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation in Washington, D.C. Here, she discovered what her heart deeply longed for, but had not been completely fulfilled within the institutional church. She was drawn both to the ministry of spiritual guidance and to the sense of spiritual community she found there.
Lyta and Bob felt a strong connection to Mount Desert Island, Maine, and fell in love with the beauty of Acadia National Park and its rocky coastline. In 1992, they bought an 1838 Cape which they restored for their retirement. They loved splitting their time between Maine and Pennsylvania and were deeply loyal to both communities.
Lyta had a lifelong commitment to be true to her callings of ordained ministry and as a spiritual guide to others. In Maine, she was involved with the Northeast Guild community – both as an Associate and Board Member. Lyta and Bob became active in the Alcyon Center Spiritual Community, where they faithfully attended weekly Bible Study. Lyta also founded Soul Rest, a meditation and centering prayer group in which participants gather each week via Zoom and are invited to rest in the presence of the divine and share their experience. Lyta provided leadership in Soul Rest until her passing. The group continues to meet and has members from Maine to Alaska and places in between.
When not in meditation and spiritual contemplation, Lyta enjoyed caring for a variety of plants, making jam, and brewing a good cup of tea. Her independent spirit and feminist leadership have left an imprint upon her daughters, family, and friends.
Lyta was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Robert. Survivors include her daughters: Dr. Elspeth G. Seddig (Heather Turner) of Phoenix, AZ, and Erica L. Seddig (Timothy Carter) of Seattle, WA; three grandchildren: Stelyn Carter, Keillor Carter and Chance Turner; her sister Chrysteen Schenkel (James Schenkel) of Walnut Creek, CA and brother Jeffrey Gerhold (Marj Gerhold) of Woodstock, MD and several nephews and a niece.
A celebration of her life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Somesville Union Meeting House in Mount Desert, ME, followed by a reception.
Contributions in her memory may be made to the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation in Washington D.C. and United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in Minnesota.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com
Lorrain Bunker Smart
Bass Harbor
Lorrain Ellen (Bunker) Smart, died peacefully at her home on March 20, 2026. Lorrain was born November 29th, 1960, at Eastern Maine General Hospital in Bangor, Maine, the second daughter of Della (Teague) (Bunker) Dow and Merrill Bunker.
Lorrain attended local schools and graduated from Mount Desert Island High School in 1979.
Lorrain’s greatest legacy in life are her two wonderful children, Chelsea and Zachary. She would tell anyone and everyone about her kids and how proud she was of them. Lorrain loved to be involved in whatever her kids were doing, as well as helping at the high school. She thoroughly enjoyed being supportive as Chelsea worked behind the scenes on the technical team for school productions. As Zach grew, he loved to cook and eventually became a chef. Lorrain adored his cooking and endeavored to cook more often and to learn healthy recipes through Zach’s tutelage. From Zach’s performing in plays to Chelsea’s design of costumes for cosplay, to their adventures as they grew into adults, Lorrain was always proud of their achievements in life.
Lorrain loved to craft, making jewelry and crocheted items to sell at local craft fairs. She had the gift of gab, and she cherished her “craft family.” The cheerful exchanges and conversations she had with other crafters and the shoppers who visited her table often brought her more joy than any completed sale could. She happily messaged her family and loved ones regularly, keeping in touch and updating them on her daily adventures. She enjoyed being involved with everyone, even if it was just through a simple text message. She took great delight in attending PortConMaine in Portland each year and designing her costumes to wear as she transformed herself into villains such as Cruella, Maleficent, and Ursula the Sea Witch. She made friends with many of the attendees, considering them part of her family, and loved that they called her MamaCon. Lorrain also had a lovely singing voice and enjoyed participating in area musical productions including as Little Miss Muffet in Shrek the Musical (2017) and as a cook in Willy Wonka (2016) with Acadia Community Theater. She proudly sang the National Anthem at the Maine State Convention of the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Maine on several different occasions.
Lorrain is survived by her children Chelsea Thomas and partner Jil, of Manchester, CT, and Zachary Smart of Bar Harbor, ME; her siblings, Diana Faust and husband Doug of Medway, MA, Annie Durost and husband Paul, of China, ME, Daniel Bunker and wife Deb, of Sullivan, ME, Barney Bunker and wife Jen, of Bayfield, CO, Stephen Dow and wife Lorri, of Winterport, ME, Charlene Smith and husband Perrill of Beaverton, OR, Cheryl LaRobadiere of Bangor, ME, and Cindy Dunster and husband Doug of Tigard, OR, as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends, from near and far, too numerous to list. Lastly, she leaves behind her cat, Sabine, who was a constant and faithful (albeit mischievous) companion who kept her company and always entertained her with her antics.
Lorrain was predeceased by her loving parents, Della and Wills Dow, as well as her father, Merrill Bunker.
Lorrain will be buried alongside her parents in a graveside service on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Mount Height Cemetery in Southwest Harbor, ME.
Mark Gaetano Sarro
Franklin
Mark Gaetano Sarro, 72, died March 23, 2026, at his residence in Franklin. He built his home with the help of his father, something he was very proud of and a place he truly loved to be. He was born June 30, 1953, in Fall River, Massachusetts, the son of Mark and Rita Sarro.
Mark owned and operated Sarro’s Floor Covering in Franklin for many years, a trade he learned from his father. He took great pride in his work and was known for his dedication to his craft. There wasn’t a room he entered that was safe from his inspection and report of the flooring work.
In his free time, he enjoyed working outdoors and spending as much time as possible near the ocean. He was never far from a beach. He was an avid reader, often sharing books with his friends and family. His favorite was “Where the crawdads sing” by Delia Owens.
Mark’s greatest joy came from his children: Morgan Erbes and her husband, Jack, of Stuart, Florida; Christopher Sarro of Ellsworth; Nicholas Sarro and his partner, Kelley, of Tucson, Arizona; and Mary Morse and her husband, John, of Ellsworth. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Cainen, Griffin, Ryder, Natalie, and Zoey. He was so proud to be “bruddah” to his four sisters: Anne Sasso and her husband, Joe, Loretta Sevas and her husband, Don, Rita Sarro and her partner, John, and Wendy Hendley and her late husband, Jack; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Mark was loved by so many friends in his community and left an impression on everyone, something that continued to surprise him. If you were lucky enough to know him, you knew a man who would do anything for anyone. A man who loved tinkering and using his hands to build things. Someone with a routine; breakfast at the Trading Post or Josie’s while reading the paper, lunch at Pat’s Pizza. A Little Debbie and ice cream lover, he was always on the hunt for his next sweet treat. A son, father, Papa, bruddah, and friend.
The next time you “kick back for a bit” and take a nap near the water, read a book that you can’t wait to share, or laugh at your own joke think of Mark and smile.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on April 25, 2026, at Calvary Chapel Downeast, 513 Bar Harbor Road, Trenton.
Those who wish may make contributions in Mark’s memory to Arise Addiction Recovery, c/o Paul Trovarello, P.O. Box 353, Machias, ME,04654.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.
Carolyn Anne Grant
Veazie
Our loving mother, Carolyn Anne Grant, 81, of Veazie, passed away peacefully at a Bangor hospital March 14, 2026. She was born March 21, 1944, at Machiasport, Maine, to Earl and Velma (Copp) Colbeth and was predeceased by her three siblings.
Carolyn grew up in Bucks Harbor, Maine. Married (formerly) to Lawrence Lynn Grant of Harrington, she was a loving and endearing wife, mother and loving mother-in-law and grandmother. Our mom baked each of us six children a birthday cake every year! She will be fondly remembered as the best fudge maker. Carolyn loved be-bop and playing guitar. Mom was a gifted artist, great speller, and she had lovely penmanship and excelled at secretarial work. Our mother also worked for the City of Bangor at the Auditorium, which took her to the Bangor Fair, which we all enjoyed as a family. She also did PCA, carhop, and crossing guard.
We hold her in our hearts; the Good Shepherd holds her in His arms.
“You are the wind beneath our wings, Mama.”
John (KJV)— “WE LOVE BECAUSE HE FIRST LOVED US.”
Mama went to be with the Lord and is now safe in His arms.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Psalm 27:1— “The Lord is my light and salvation. The Lord is the strength of my life.”
Spring interment will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Bangor.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Bragdon-Kelley Funeral Home, Ellsworth, where online condolences may be shared: www.bragdonkelley.com.
Bruce Sweeney Astbury
Blue Hill
Bruce Sweeney Astbury, 61, of Blue Hill, Maine, passed away on February 6, 2026.
Born and raised in Castine, Maine, Bruce built a life rooted in hard work, loyalty, and love for his family. He worked as an independent painter and drywall professional and took great pride in his work.
Above all, Bruce loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Laura Astbury; his daughters, Abbie Jordan (Ian) and Emily DeGeorge (Michael); and his granddaughters, Aspen Jordan, Harper DeGeorge, Bailey DeGeorge, and Piper DeGeorge. He is also survived by his brothers, Berwin and Berney Astbury; and his in-laws, Frank and Ruth Schaefer. He was predeceased by his parents, Clayton and Jaunita Astbury, and his brother, Benjamin Astbury.
Bruce had a larger-than-life personality and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Though tough on the outside, he had a soft heart and loved deeply. He cherished time with his wife, whether exploring Maine, going to the beach, or relaxing at home. He was a proud father and grandfather who adored his family and took great joy in the time they spent together.
A private celebration of life will be held with immediate family. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.
Celeste Chick Cram
Amherst.
Celeste Chick Cram, a beloved presence in the lives of all who knew her, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. Her life was defined by generosity, quiet strength, and a deep devotion to the people she loved. Celeste had a gift for making others feel seen and valued, and her kindness left an imprint that will be carried forward for generations.
Born on December 21, 1952, to Frank Sawyer and Glenice Chick, Celeste lived a life grounded in love, resilience and deep family connection. She passed on March 8, 2026, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to share in her journey.
She was predeceased by her husband, Ashel; her sons Norman Grindle and Kenneth Cram; her brother, Anthony Chick; her granddaughter, Ashley Bloomer; and her brothers-in-law, Lewis Mitchell and Robert Pinkham.
Celeste is survived by her brothers, Frank Chick and his wife, Candy; James Chick and his wife, Hazel; and her sisters, Clara Mitchell, Janis Garland, and Vadeen Pinkham. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Holly Cram. Her grandchildren include Michael Coleman, Alicia Cram, Kayla Grindle, Ryan Cram, Taylor Smith, Ashley Smith, and Jason Cram. In addition, she leaves behind four great-grandchildren, Emery, McKenna, Kennedy and Olivia.
A graveside service will be held on June 14, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Mount Rest Cemetery, Tannery Loop Road, Amherst, Maine. A celebration of life gathering will follow at Doe and Dale Cook’s camp at 0 Chick Brook, Amherst, with food and refreshments provided.
Celeste will be remembered for her warmth, her steady presence, and a quiet but powerful way she supported the people she loved. Her life was a testament of kindness, loyalty, and a beauty of a generous heart. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Ellen Keegan Hersey
Bucksport
Ellen Keegan Hersey, 90, passed away peacefully at home on March 24, 2026, with her family by her side. Ellen was born in Bucksport in 1936 to Edward “Bo” and Thelma (Coffin) Keegan.
Although she lived for a time in Massachusetts, Maine was always home. Ellen graduated from Bucksport High in the class of 1954 and went on to St. Elizabeth’s School of Nursing in Brighton, MA, where she met her future husband, Donald “Butch” Hersey. They were married in 1958 and moved to Danvers, MA, where they raised sons, Donnie and Scott, through their childhood years. Eventually, the yearning for home brought Ellen back to Bucksport. With the help of family and friends, Butch built a lovely ranch on Central Street and Ellen went to work as an industrial health nurse in the mill, serving as a union leader and helping establish safety standards that benefitted all employees.
Ellen was an active participant in the community. She was a member of the Women’s Group at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, an EMT with the Bucksport Ambulance Service, and a fan of Bucksport High sports. Ellen enjoyed spending time with friends old and new, cheered for the Red Sox and Bruins, and generously shared her sweet-hot mustard. Her number one priority, however, was always her family. Ellen joyfully welcomed grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who spent countless hours with their Nana in the pool on Central Street, at Craig’s Pond and skiing down Sugarloaf Mountain. Nana never missed a milestone or celebration, played a fierce game of rummy, and was known as Nana Claus at Christmastime when she showered the family with gifts. Of all the gifts Ellen gave her grandchildren, the greatest was her deep and unconditional love.
Ellen was predeceased by her husband, Donald; and sister, Janice (Keegan) Leach and her husband, Harland (Jerry). She is survived by her brother, John Keegan of Penobscot; her sons, Dr. Donald (Cathy) of Londonderry, NH, and Scott (Kristine) of Worcester, MA, grandchildren, Katie, Megan, Keegan, Erin, M.E., Sarah, Matt, Mary Claire, and Jake; great-grandchildren, Maeve, Theo, Finley, Wes, Max, and Arlo; and nieces and nephews.
Ellen and her family are grateful for the compassionate care provided by Senior Care at Home.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bucksport Fire and Ambulance Service. Arrangements are under the care of Mitchell-Tweedie Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Bucksport. mitchelltweedie-young.com
Discover more from Bar Harbor Story
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.