In Memorial: Susan Stewart

On March 17, a beloved shepherd and friend, Susan Stewart passed away – leaving many tears of sadness and smiles of joy from beautiful memories. For 12 years she was well known in the Romney community as a part of the Anchorage Farm team and before that could be seen fitting and showing with Moosehill Farm. Susan became involved with the sheep industry when she first met Graeme Stewart over 20 years ago and we know that our wooly world will not be the same without her. Those of us that met Susan found a person who always put others first, gave above and beyond to children, smiled through the toughest of pains, took beautiful photographs and had an uncanny ability to make each of us feel important no matter how “good” our sheep were! Many were unaware that Sue battled cancer bravely for almost 20 years because she refused to let cancer determine who she was. At 2015 New York Sheep and Wool Festival, despite incredible pain, Sue continued to do what she loved – capturing many wonderful candid moments on her camera as we all laughed with her and enjoyed what she and we love the most – our sheep and the friends that they bring. Through Sue’s pictures, and our memories, we will hold on to her and to those we love the most.

In lieu of flowers, the family is accepting donations towards medical expenses. Condolences and memorial contributions may be sent to Graeme Stewart, 8 Mynderse St, Saugerties NY 12477.

A favorite poem of Sue’s is brought to mind as we have lost so many wonderful shepherds over the last year.

“A sheep farmer’s prayer”
“Heaven won’t be so lonely if what I hope is true. If a little lamb of God is there or some old friendly ewe, in those celestial pastures, beside still waters deep. May the eternal future find me with a little bunch of sheep.”

(write-up by Tracy Sands)