Family members confirmed the death of 85-year-old Byron “Gene” Jones, who had been missing since April 21. The announcement came through a social media post in a group dedicated to finding the elderly Canton resident.
What We Know: A family member posted that Jones “has been found” but indicated it was “not the outcome we had hoped for.” The post stated the family takes comfort in believing “he is now with Jesus—safe, whole, and at peace in His presence.”
Jones, who suffered from dementia and required medication, disappeared after leaving his Canton residence around 6 p.m. on April 21 in a dark blue Toyota Camry.
The last confirmed sighting of Jones’ vehicle came via a Flock camera in Blue Ridge at 8:52 p.m. on the day he went missing.
What We Don’t Know: Details about where and when Jones was found have not been released.
In Context: A Mattie’s Call— Georgia’s emergency alert for missing cognitively impaired adults— had been issued for Jones after his disappearance. The alert system is designed to help locate vulnerable adults who may be in danger due to age, health conditions, or cognitive impairment.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6 in 10 people with dementia will wander at least once, and many do so repeatedly, often during times of stress or confusion.
Take Action: The Jones family indicated they will share details about memorial services soon. Community members wishing to support the family during this difficult time should watch for updates about services and other ways to help.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.
