10/09/2025
George Hughes Beckwith, Jr.
July 26, 1970 – October 6, 2025
George Hughes Beckwith, Jr., 55, of North Carolina, passed away on October 6, 2025, at his cherished farm in Alleghany County, Virginia on the Harvest full moon also known as the Hunters moon.
Born in Virginia and raised in New Bern, North Carolina, he grew up on the Trent River fishing on his boat long before he could drive. He spent so much time on the river that he was nicknamed “Fish.” George was the son of Kathy Dodge and the late Dr. George Hughes Beckwith, Sr. A graduate of UNC Wilmington with a degree in Marine Science, George lived a life shaped by deep connections—to family, nature, and the water. He was a lifelong outdoorsman who found purpose in both the quiet patience of fishing and the adventure of the hunt.
George earned his U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License early in his career, competed in the bass fishing circuit, and founded Down East Guide Service. He and his wife, Anna, built and managed Dragin Fly Sportfishing charters in Costa Rica. The Dragin Fly, and the family it created, including his crew, friends and clients provided over 18 years of memories.
On July 3, 2022, while fishing off Quepos, Costa Rica, George achieved a lifetime goal when he set the IGFA Men’s 3-kg Line Class World Record for Pacific Snook.
A gifted storyteller, George brought his experiences to life through his vivid writing, numerous published articles, and television appearances. Friends and family will remember his steadfast loyalty, generosity, wit, and the joy he took in mentoring others—whether in fishing, hunting or life.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Anna Barrios Beckwith; his mother, Kathy Dodge; brother, Henry Beckwith; nephews, AJ and Matthew Barrios; and chosen nephews, Merritt and Matthew Roberts. He also leaves behind his loyal dogs, Gypsy Soul and Riley.
A celebration of George’s life will be held on the next full moon Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Christ Church, 320 Po***ck Street, New Bern, NC, followed by a reception in his honor at Copper Ridge on the Neuse, 2706 Old Cherry Point Rd, New Bern, NC, from 2:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
Guests are invited to come as they are, to honor George’s life and share memories and stories.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:
• Allegheny Mountain Radio
• Cowpasture River Preservation Association
The family invites you to share your memories and photos of George by sending an email to: [email protected]
Anna would appreciate if you would use this email to also send any pictures of them along their adventures.
George often said, “I might not be here for a long time, but I’m here for a good time.” Though he’s cast his final line, his spirit endures—in the rustle of leaves, the ripple of water, and the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Tight lines, calm seas, and God bless.
