Derek John Townsend, 34, lost his battle with mental health and addiction at his home on Thursday, January 19, 2023.  Derek was born in Machias on August 27, 1988, son of Robin Stuart and April (Townsend) Lee.

Derek was a graduate of Woodland High School, Class of 2006.  In 2021 he earned his welding certificate from Beal University.  Derek was a hard worker and enjoyed music, sports, hunting, and fishing.  He loved his family and friends, especially his special nieces, Katherine and Mya, and special nephews Bradley and Connor. 

Derek was predeceased by a sister Alecia Lee; and grandparents, Ellery Townsend, Granville Lee, and Emily and Gordon Stuart.  He is survived by his parents, April and Robbie Lee of Meddybemps, and Robin and Debbie Stuart of Eastport; grandmothers, Louise Lee of Meddybemps, and Gloria Emery of Baileyville; brother James Lee and wife Rachel of Meddybemps; sisters, Heather Townsend and companion Emmanuel Shirley of Seabreeze, FL, Josey Lee Niles and husband Austin of Baileyville, Jessica Dore of Augusta, Emily Stuart of Eastport, and Robyn Stuart of Eastport; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.