The search for Gary Jones, a beloved high school coach, has entered its third week on Lake Oconee. Jones and his fiancée, Joycelyn Wilson, disappeared on February 8 during a boating trip to celebrate his 50th birthday. Their empty boat was found circling near Wallace Dam that evening. Wilson’s body was recovered the next day, but Jones remains missing.

🚤 What’s Happening: Multiple agencies, including the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, are actively searching for Jones. Efforts have been hampered by cold weather and challenging lake conditions, such as submerged timber. Recent operations involved cutting off power to the dam to reduce currents, aiding cadaver dog teams in their search.

👥 Who Made it Happen: Volunteers, former students, and organizations like the United Cajun Navy have joined the search.

❓ Why It Matters: Jones, a coach and teacher at Westminster Schools in Atlanta, has made a significant impact on his students and community. Wilson was a respected math instructor at Spelman College. Their tragic disappearance has deeply affected both institutions and the broader community.