Beaufort, SC, October 9, 2025
News Summary
The Beaufort community is grieving the loss of Edward Jeffrey Evans, a prominent journalist who passed away at the age of 66. Co-founder of Lowcountry Weekly and The Island News, Evans dedicated his life to promoting local journalism and community engagement. His diverse background included roles in acting, home restoration, and culinary arts before he became a respected figure in the media landscape. He leaves behind a legacy of accessible news and a commitment to the arts, remembered fondly by friends and family.
Beaufort, S.C. is mourning the loss of local journalist Edward Jeffrey Evans, who passed away peacefully at the age of 66 on September 6, 2025. Evans, a well-respected figure in the local media community, co-founded Lowcountry Weekly and later acquired The Island News, both publications instrumental in supporting local journalism and community engagement.
Born on January 23, 1959, to Edward and Leona Evans, Jeff, as he was affectionately known, had a diverse background. He lived as an Army brat during his youth, which exposed him to various cultures and experiences. Before establishing a career in journalism, he explored a range of professions, including acting, home restoration, and culinary arts. His passion for storytelling led him to video production, culminating in the founding of Seagate Productions upon his move to Hilton Head Island in 1992.
Evans’ commitment to community journalism intensified when he settled in Beaufort. Along with his wife, Margaret Evans, he co-founded Lowcountry Weekly, which celebrates 25 years of print journalism. In 2019, the couple acquired The Island News, which has since garnered numerous accolades from the South Carolina Press Association, including the prestigious President’s Award in 2022. His work emphasized the importance of accessible news for all community members.
In addition to his journalistic endeavors, Evans actively contributed to various local committees, including the Beaufort Arts Council and the City A-Tax Committee. He was also the founder and Artistic Director of Lowcountry Shakespeare, a role through which he produced annual productions of Shakespeare in the Park for over a decade. Evans is remembered for his advocacy for the arts and the accessibility of journalism.
Evans is survived by his wife, Margaret Evans, age 60, and their daughter, Amelia Evans, age 24. He was preceded in death by his parents. A celebration of his life will be scheduled at a later date, allowing the community to gather and pay their respects. Memorial contributions in his honor can be made to The Island News, PO Box 550, Beaufort, SC 29901.
On the same day Evans’ passing was announced, the First Federal Foundation revealed a substantial grant of $10,000 to Circle of Hope Ministries, Inc.. This grant aims to support local outreach efforts, aligning with Evans’ dedication to community service and journalism.
In addition to Evans, the community has recently mourned the loss of other notable individuals, such as Annette (Toni) Hiers, age 75, and Gloria Jean Perkins-Godwin, age 79. Their contributions to Beaufort will also be remembered by family, friends, and the wider community.
FAQ
Who was Edward Jeffrey Evans?
Edward Jeffrey Evans, 66, from Beaufort, S.C., died peacefully on September 6, 2025. He was a local journalist known for co-founding Lowcountry Weekly and acquiring The Island News.
What was Edward Jeffrey Evans’s contribution to journalism?
Jeff Evans was passionate about local journalism, advocating for free access to news for all. His work included co-founding Lowcountry Weekly and acquiring The Island News, which received multiple awards for its quality journalism.
What other roles did Edward Jeffrey Evans hold?
In addition to journalism, Evans was involved in local arts and served on several committees, including the Beaufort Arts Council and the City A-Tax Committee. He was also the founder and Artistic Director of Lowcountry Shakespeare.
How can one contribute in Edward Jeffrey Evans’s memory?
Memorial contributions can be made in his honor to The Island News, PO Box 550, Beaufort, SC 29901.
What grant was recently awarded to Circle of Hope Ministries?
The First Federal Foundation recently awarded Circle of Hope Ministries, Inc. a $10,000 grant to support local outreach efforts.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Edward Jeffrey Evans |
| Age | 66 |
| Born | January 23, 1959 |
| Date of Passing | September 6, 2025 |
| Organizations Founded | Lowcountry Weekly, The Island News, Lowcountry Shakespeare |
| Survived by | Margaret Evans and Amelia Evans |
| Recent Grant Announcement | Circle of Hope Ministries, Inc. awarded $10,000 |
| Other Notable Deaths | Annette (Toni) Hiers, Gloria Jean Perkins-Godwin |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Community Mourns the Passing of Local Journalist Jeff Evans
Additional Resources
- Your Island News: Edward Jeffrey Evans
- Island Packet: Local News
- Legacy: Nathan Wilson Obituary
- Brice Herndon Funeral Home: Gloria Jean Perkins-Godwin
- Allen Funerals: Deacon John P. Miller Jr. Obituary
- Wikipedia: Journalism
- Google Search: Edward Jeffrey Evans
- Google Scholar: Edward Jeffrey Evans
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Journalism
- Google News: Edward Jeffrey Evans
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
