Fly Fishers,
Very sad news to report.
George Crosby, the last of the four founding members of The Fly Fishers of Virginia, passed away on New Year’s Day at his home in Center Cross.
Here is a short obituary from his son Dave:
George David Crosby, Jr, formerly of Varina, peacefully passed away on January 1, 2023, at his long-cherished river home in Center Cross, VA. George is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jane “Bettye” Bowden Crosby. George was born August 21, 1935, to George David Sr and Eva Owens Crosby. He graduated from Varina High School in 1954. He attended the University of Virginia and graduated with a degree in Economics. He was a lifelong, loyal fan of UVA athletics. While attending UVA, he was a member of the Air Force ROTC and was also a reserve member of the National Guard. He retired from Virginia Power after a 38-year career in 1995. He was a lifelong member of Fort Lee Baptist Church serving as a Deacon, Treasurer and Trustee. He served as a Sunday School Teacher for 65 years. His love for hunting and fishing allowed him to spend time with many friends. He co-founded the Fly Fishers of Va. in 1985. He was a member of the James River Ruffed Grouse Society and served on the Va. Fishing Forum. He also started his own business, Bird Shooters Fly Catchers, in 1986. He sold firearms and tied and sold original flies for Fly Fishing. He was an active member of the Downtown Club and served as President from 1997 – 1998. He is survived by his wife, Bettye, son Dave and wife Jaime, daughter Dana and husband Tim Blake. He adored all his grandchildren: Hunter David Crosby, Eva Anne Crosby, Christopher (Chris) Shawn Blake, Katherine (Katie) Blake Shaw, and Jackson Parry Crosby. He shared much time with them and created many memories. He will be missed by all.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Fly Fishers of Virginia, PO Box 29477, Richmond, VA. 23242 to support children learning how to fish/art of fly fishing thru the George Crosby Scholarship Fund.
From the FFV By-laws:
George Crosby Youth Scholarship
Named for FFV founding member George Crosby who has always encouraged young people to take up fly fishing and to learn the importance conservation plays in protecting our fisheries resources. The scholarship is open to FFV youth members and to the children, grandchildren or relatives of club members in good standing.
Further information will be sent out as it becomes available.