Authorities have found the body of missing basketball coach Gary Jones in Georgia’s Lake Oconee, ending a month-long search. Jones vanished on February 8 while boating with his fiancée, Spelman College instructor Joycelyn Wilson. Search teams discovered Wilson’s body a day later, but Jones remained missing until Sunday.
Putnam County Sheriff Howard Sills told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that search crews located Jones’ body about 45 feet underwater, near the area where they found Wilson. Investigators had previously discovered Jones’ empty fishing boat and sneakers floating nearby.
Specialist’s Sonar Search Leads To Discovery
Gary Jones’ family hired search-and-recovery expert Keith Cormican, who used advanced sonar technology to scan the lake. His efforts led to the discovery, finally bringing closure to the search.
The body of missing teacher Gary Jones was found in Lake Oconee Sunday, according to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.
— Atlanta News First (@ATLNewsFirst) March 9, 2025
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Jones had coached basketball and taught at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta since 2002. Westminster President Keith Evans described his impact, saying, “I have had the privilege of connecting with alumni, parents, students, and faculty members who have shared stories of Gary’s legacy and the many ways he inspired both his students and colleagues.”
Authorities continue investigating the boating accident. Meanwhile, Gary Jones’ students, colleagues, and loved ones mourn the loss of a coach and mentor who left a lasting mark on his community.
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