Barbudan fisherman and environmental advocate George Jeffrey has died while awaiting a High Court ruling in a landmark legal challenge against a planned luxury residential development by English developer Henry Anderson.

Jeffrey passed away on Monday, December 22, 2025. He was a resident of Barbuda and, alongside the UK-based Global Legal Action Network (GLAN), brought the case challenging the Development Control Authority’s (DCA) decision to approve construction.

At the time of his death, Jeffrey was awaiting judgment from Justice Jan Drysdale, who reserved her decision earlier this year after a five-hour hearing and consideration of a 2,000-page court bundle.

Jeffrey, who worked as a fisherman and tour guide, was widely known for his efforts to sustainably share Barbuda’s natural heritage, particularly the internationally renowned Frigate Bird Sanctuary within Codrington Lagoon National Park. In recent years, he emerged as a prominent voice in opposition to the Cedar Tree Point development.

Tributes have poured in following news of his passing. One social media post described Jeffrey as “a barefoot giant” and “a great environmentalist,” recalling his deep connection to the lagoon and his generosity of spirit.

In a statement posted on Facebook, GLAN expressed deep sadness at Jeffrey’s death and extended condolences to his family.

GLAN Director Gearóid Ó Cuinn reflected on working with Jeffrey over the past several years, describing him as “a steadfast Barbudan land defender”. Ó Cuinn noted that Jeffrey “held on, with great resolve, as he awaited a decision in his case,” adding that GLAN was honoured to support his struggle.

Although Jeffrey did not live to see the outcome of the case, his legacy is likely to live on through the legal challenge he helped bring and through the many lives he touched in his defence of Codrington Lagoon.