Macon mayor honors ‘cherished’ drowning victim with day in his name

Macon-Bibb County named a day in honor of a man who recently drowned during a courageous act.

Mayor Lester Miller named July 16 as “Johnny ‘Coolhand Yung’ Collins III Day,” in honor of Collins, whose body was found that day underwater at Amerson River Park. Miller signed a proclamation to honor the day on July 24, according to Patricia Colbert, the mayor’s senior administrative assistant.

The 28-year-old didn’t know how to swim, according to his friends, but dove into the water anyway in attempt to save his girlfriend’s daughters from drowning, who were 7 and 10 years old. All three victims were found dead.

“I urge all citizens to join as a community in remembering the life and legacy of this young man as we bow to a greater Will than our own and rest in the knowledge that one day we will be united with him,” Miller said in a proclamation.

The Central High School alumnus died a week before his birthday, July 21, the proclamation said.

The document honored Collins’ impact on Macon nightlife as a music producer and DJ who started the rap group Smooth Vibes Only.

He “(created) many sounds of excellence for the enjoyment of all,” the proclamation said.

It also recognized Collins as a “vibrant well-mannered young man” who “could brighten up any room with his beautiful smile and style of dressing.”

Miller called him cherished, pious, noble and courageous in the proclamation.

Collins was raised by his godparents, Eloise and the late Samuel Adkins Jr., after his parents died while he was a kid, according to the proclamation and Adam “LA” McDuffie Jr., who was Collins’ friend and roommate.