Authorities in Georgia are still searching for a missing teacher after his fiancé’s body was discovered in Lake Oconee.
Disappearance on Lake Oconee
Jocelyn Wilson, a Spelman College instructor, and her fiancé, Gary Jones, were last seen on February 8 while on a small fishing boat celebrating Jones’ 50th birthday. The couple had checked into a hotel near the lake before heading out on the water. However, about two hours later, boaters found their empty boat drifting on the lake.
At 5:30 p.m., authorities were alerted that the couple was missing, and the search began shortly after. The next day, Wilson’s body was recovered from the water. Investigators also found Jones’ shoes, a hotel room key card, his wallet, and his driver’s license near the scene. However, there was no sign of Jones himself.
Ongoing Search Efforts
Multiple agencies, including the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR), are involved in the search. On February 14, the DNR announced they were using SONAR technology, aviation teams, and K-9 units to scan the lake and surrounding shoreline. The Georgia State Patrol dive team has also joined the effort.
Despite the challenging conditions, including freezing temperatures and rain, authorities continue to patrol the area. Officials say they remain committed to bringing closure to Jones’ family.
Who Were Wilson and Jones?
Jocelyn Wilson had been teaching at Spelman College since 2007 and was a senior instructor in the math department. She had also previously taught at Howard University and American University in Washington, D.C.
Gary Jones has been a science teacher at Westminster Schools since 2002, where he also serves as the head coach for the middle school track and field program and the 8th-grade boys’ basketball team.
Community Support
Jones’ family has expressed gratitude for the support they have received during this difficult time.
“This has been a horrific experience for our family, but we will not rest until he is found,” the family said in a statement.
As the search continues, former students and community members have stepped in to help. Lauren Cherry, who knew Jones, described him as a father figure to many.
“If any of us had gone missing, he would have been the first one out here looking for us,” she said. “Now it’s our turn to do the same for him.”
