In Loving Memory — FV Lilly Jean and Her Crew

The Gloucester community and the wider maritime family are mourning heartbreaking news following the disappearance of the FV Lilly Jean, an 80-foot commercial fishing vessel captained by Gus Sanfilippo, which is missing and presumed to have sunk off the coast of Gloucester earlier this morning. The Lilly Jean was not only a working fishing boat, but a symbol of resilience, tradition, and the sacrifices made by those who earn their living at sea. She was also featured on the History Channel’s Nor’Easter Men, offering viewers a rare look into the demanding life of New England fishermen.

Reports indicate the crew alerted authorities that the vessel was taking on water and sinking before contact was lost. The U.S. Coast Guard has since located an empty life raft, and an extensive search effort is ongoing, with multiple resources deployed in hopes of finding survivors.

On board was Captain Gus Sanfilippo, along with a close-knit crew that included the Beal boys—Paul and his son—well known on the docks as a devoted father-and-son deckhand team. Also aboard were a younger crew member from Lynn and a federal observer who was carrying out official duties at the time. There are unconfirmed reports that an additional crew member may also have been on board.

As families wait and the community holds its breath, we are reminded of the dangers faced by commercial fishermen every day. Please keep these men and their loved ones in your thoughts and prayers as the search continues. Their courage, dedication, and legacy will not be forgotten.