Beaufort SC, September 11, 2025
News Summary
The Beaufort community is grieving the loss of Jeff Evans, the esteemed publisher of The Island News and Lowcountry Weekly, who died at the age of 66 due to complications from a fall. Evans was a passionate advocate for local journalism, co-founding Lowcountry Weekly and acquiring The Island News. His contributions extended beyond publishing, as he actively supported local cultural events and initiatives, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
Beaufort Community Mourns the Loss of Jeff Evans, Esteemed Publisher and Advocate for Local Journalism
Beaufort, SC – Community members are mourning the loss of Jeff Evans, the publisher of The Island News and Lowcountry Weekly, who passed away on Saturday afternoon at the age of 66. Evans died at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, where he was hospitalized for complications following a fall that occurred at his Pigeon Point home on August 31.
Evans was known in the community as a passionate advocate for local journalism. His commitment to the field was notable, with many colleagues emphasizing his belief in the power of community journalism. He co-founded Lowcountry Weekly with his wife, Margaret, 25 years ago, and acquired The Island News in 2018. The impact of his work extended beyond publishing as he actively supported local cultural events such as the Beaufort International Film Festival and the annual Water Festival.
Recognizing Evans’s multifaceted talent, he was also a skilled videographer, graphic designer, photographer, and actor, contributing significantly to local arts initiatives. His previous ownership of a videography business, Seagate Productions, in Hilton Head established a foundation for his later endeavors. Evans played an essential role in local governance as a member of the Beaufort Arts Council and served as the Chairman of the City A-Tax Committee.
Colleagues and friends expressed their grief over Evans’s passing. Fellow members of the community described him as a “super nice guy” and one of the good individuals dedicated to the betterment of Beaufort. His talent in photography was also recognized, as he earned a first-place award in the South Carolina Press Association contest for best general news photo, which reinforced his significant contributions to journalism and storytelling.
A celebration of life for Evans is currently being planned, and details are still being finalized. The loss of Evans is keenly felt not only among the editorial staff of his publications but throughout the entire community of Beaufort.
Background on Jeff Evans
Jeff Evans was not only a publisher but also a community leader deeply engaged with local issues and creative initiatives. His career spanned a wide array of roles that have enriched the Beaufort cultural and journalism landscapes. His founding of Lowcountry Weekly with his wife highlighted their commitment to showcasing local stories and events, and his acquisition of The Island News marked a significant milestone in his career dedicated to serving the community through quality journalism.
Evans’s Legacy
The legacy of Jeff Evans is characterized by his unwavering support for local journalism and the arts. His contributions have shaped the cultural identity of Beaufort, fostering a sense of community pride through storytelling, events, and artistic expression. As a mentor, friend, and advocate, Evans’s influence will be remembered by many who shared in his vision of a vibrant local culture.
What’s Next
As plans for a celebration of Jeff Evans’s life unfold, the community is encouraged to reflect on his contributions and the positive impact he made on everyone around him. Many remember him for his work, kindness, and dedication to local causes, marking a profound loss for the Beaufort community.
FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened to Jeff Evans?
Jeff Evans passed away due to complications from a fall he experienced at his home. - What was Jeff Evans known for?
He was known as a publisher, advocate for local journalism, and a supporter of various arts initiatives in Beaufort. - When and where is the celebration of life for Jeff Evans?
Details of the celebration of life are still being finalized, and the community will be informed accordingly. - What contributions did Jeff Evans make to the Beaufort community?
Evans played a vital role in promoting local journalism and supporting cultural events, leaving a lasting positive impact on the community.
Key Features of Jeff Evans’s Contributions
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Local Journalism Advocate | Evans strongly believed in and promoted the importance of local journalism. |
| Co-founder of Lowcountry Weekly | Founded with his wife, providing a platform for local stories. |
| Impactful Community Events | Supported and promoted cultural events like the Beaufort International Film Festival and Water Festival. |
| Artistic Contributions | Was involved in various forms of art including videography, photography, and acting. |
| Community Leadership | Served on multiple committees impacting local governance and the arts. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Community Mourns the Passing of Local Journalist Jeff Evans
Beaufort Community Remembers Local Publisher Jeff Evans
Community Mourns the Loss of Esteemed Publisher Jeff Evans
Jeff Evans, Local Publisher, Passes Away
Additional Resources
- Your Island News: Beaufort Community Mourns the Loss of Jeff Evans
- Island Packet: Community News on Jeff Evans
- Your Island News: Jeff Evans Dies
- Google Search: Jeff Evans Beaufort
- Wikipedia: Journalism
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.
