Sarah E. Pickreign

Sarah E. Pickreign, 44, of Malone, passed away unexpectedly at her home on March 14, 2026. Her sudden passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. A celebration of Sarah's life will be held later this spring, where family and friends will gather to remember and honor her. Private burial will take place at Morningside Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate care and guidance of Frary Funeral Home of Malone.

Sarah was born on July 8, 1981, in Malone to Edward A. Pickreign and Louise L. (Leduc) Pickreign. She attended Malone Central School and graduated from Franklin Academy in 1999. Sarah later pursued her interest in childhood education at SUNY Potsdam. She began her career with Franklin County as an abstract clerk, where she worked for several years before continuing her dedication to caring for others as an aide at the William Mansion Nursing Home. For the past fifteen years, Sarah worked as a customer service associate at the Malone Walmart. There, she became a familiar and friendly face to many in the community, taking pride in her work and the everyday connections she made with those around her. She took great delight in her many repeat customers. Those who knew her by name would often ask how her day was going, brightening her own in return. One in particular-a young girl who eagerly insisted on going to Sarah's register-would excitedly share stories of her latest adventures.

On October 12, 2012, Sarah married the love of her life, Adrian McGown, at St. John Bosco Church, with her uncle, Deacon Brian Bashaw, officiating the ceremony. Together they built a life filled with companionship, laughter, and shared moments that meant the world to them both.

Sarah had a creative and thoughtful spirit. She was an avid reader and writer and was especially proud to have had a book published, a lasting reflection of her inner world and creative voice. Sarah's love of doll collecting began in childhood with Barbie and the American Girl series, a reflection of her vivid and deeply imaginative spirit. She saw the world through her own unique lens, and though she did not always find it easy to express herself in conversation, she was able to beautifully capture her perspective through her writing. She found joy in the music of the Beatles and in the quiet comforts of home. Above all, Sarah cherished time spent with her beloved husband and her treasured cat, Minou (Kitten), whose companionship brought her great happiness.

Sarah is survived by her devoted husband, Adrian McGown of Malone; her loving mother, Louise L. (Leduc) Pickreign of Malone; her uncles, John Leduc, Bryan Bashaw, David Marshall, Robert (Janet) Pickreign, and Albert Williams; and her aunts, Colette Leduc, Carol Hart, Mary Johnston, Helen Marshall, Gail Williams, and Johnna Bashaw. She is also survived by her special cousins, who were like siblings to her, Emily Kinnear-Leduc, Rhea Leduc Jr., and John (Tasha) Pickreign. Their shared memories and lifelong bond were deeply meaningful to Sarah. In recent years, Sarah had a particularly close bond with her Aunt Colette and Uncle John, a connection that reflected the same love and closeness they had shared throughout her childhood.

She was predeceased by her father, Edward Pickreign; her maternal Mamere and Papere, Rhea and Rene Leduc; her paternal grandparents, Thelma and John Pickreign; and her uncles, Lionel Leduc, Maurice Leduc, Rob Hart, and John Johnston.

Sarah's life was defined by the love she shared with others and the quiet joy she found in everyday moments. Though she was taken far too soon, the warmth of her spirit and the memories she leaves behind will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved her.

She will be especially missed by her soulmate, Adrian, whom she sweetly referred to simply as "my husband," and often said "checked every box" she could ever want in a partner. Their life together was filled with deep companionship, understanding, and unwavering devotion. She adored him, and that love was fully returned. He will miss her deeply, carrying her with him in the memories they shared and holding her close in his heart always.

Memorial contributions in Sarah's memory can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.

Online condolences to Sarah's family may be shared at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.