Jean Symonds, Corea MN Obituary — Celebrated Best Medicine and Lobsterwoman Star Passes Away in Maine
Augusta, Maine, United States — The Maine artistic and maritime communities are mourning the loss of Jean Symonds Of Corea, Maine, renowned for her work in the documentaries Best Medicine and Lobsterwoman. Corea passed away peacefully at her Maine home on February 14, 2026, at the age of 68, surrounded by her family and the coastal environment she cherished. Her passing leaves a profound void among filmmakers, audiences, and Maine’s coastal communities who admired her dedication to storytelling and cultural preservation.
Jean Symonds Corea was widely celebrated for her authentic on-screen presence, deep understanding of Maine’s maritime culture, and her commitment to amplifying the stories of ordinary people whose lives revolved around the sea. Colleagues and collaborators remember her as a compassionate storyteller, an advocate for sustainable fisheries, and a respected figure in both regional and international film circles.
Early Life and Career
Born on June 12, 1957, in Rockland, Maine, Corea grew up steeped in the rhythms of coastal life. From an early age, she developed a profound connection to the ocean and the communities whose livelihoods depended on it. This bond shaped her later work in film and community advocacy.
Before her prominence on screen, Corea dedicated herself to supporting local fishermen and their families, working with organizations that promoted maritime livelihoods and coastal sustainability. Her natural leadership, understanding of maritime traditions, and approachable demeanor earned her widespread respect in her hometown. Though initially not a professional performer, her authenticity and storytelling abilities made her a natural fit for documentary filmmaking.
Film Contributions: Best Medicine and Lobsterwoman
Corea gained national recognition through her role in Best Medicine, a documentary exploring Maine’s traditional culture and coastal life. Her contributions extended beyond acting; she helped shape the narrative, connecting filmmakers with local communities and ensuring the stories were told with accuracy and sensitivity.
Her most notable work came with Lobsterwoman, which profiled the lives of Maine’s women lobstermen and their demanding work. Corea served as both a subject and cultural ambassador, providing insight and nuance that honored the resilience and heritage of coastal communities. Critics and audiences praised her authenticity, sincerity, and ability to translate lived experience into compelling on-screen storytelling, establishing the film as a landmark of Maine-focused documentary cinema.
Legacy and Community Influence
Beyond her film work, Corea championed sustainable fishing, preservation of Maine’s coastal culture, and mentorship of emerging filmmakers. She served on community boards and advisory panels, promoting marine conservation and cultural heritage. She welcomed filmmakers into her home, nurtured artistic talent, and emphasized storytelling rooted in respect and integrity.
Corea is survived by her husband, David Corea; children, Margaret “Maggie” Corea and Thomas Corea; and grandchildren, Lucy and Owen Corea. Family members remembered her as a woman of kindness, wisdom, and strength, whose life and work enriched countless individuals and communities.
Memorial and Remembrance
A memorial service will be held at St. Mary’s by the Sea Church in Rockland, Maine, on March 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Maine Maritime Heritage Center or the Coastal Film Preservation Society, reflecting Corea’s lifelong dedication to community, culture, and cinema.
Jean Symonds Corea’s passing marks the conclusion of a life devoted to storytelling, cultural preservation, and community stewardship. Through her work in Best Medicine, Lobsterwoman, and beyond, she leaves a lasting legacy that continues to inspire both coastal communities and film enthusiasts worldwide.
