HEADLAND, Ala. – Former Headland High School basketball star and coach, Sammy Jackson, was found dead in Atlanta after being reported missing on January 27, according to local reports.
Jackson, who gained prominence as an all-state basketball player in high school and later as a coach, was discovered deceased by investigators on Wednesday. His disappearance began on January 27, when his car was found abandoned in Bonaire, Georgia, on Monday. Authorities discovered Jackson’s BMW unlocked, with items scattered across the seat and floor.
Jackson’s wife, Jill, provided additional details to WGXA, stating that she last spoke with her husband Sunday afternoon. However, she received a strange text message from his phone around 2:00 a.m. Monday, inquiring about his social security number.
“His car was found, but there was no sign of Sammy,” Jill Jackson told WGXA. “It was a very strange situation, and we just couldn’t understand what had happened.”
Jackson, who graduated from Headland High School in 1982, was known for his exceptional basketball talent and coaching career. Following his high school success, he went on to play and coach at various universities, including Savannah State University, the University of Alabama, Alabama A&M, and Fort Valley State University. In 2020 and 2021, Jackson returned to his roots, coaching basketball at Headland High School.
The cause of Jackson’s death has not yet been confirmed, as investigators continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. Local news outlet WDHN is working to verify further details in the case.
Jackson’s unexpected death has left the basketball community mourning the loss of a respected figure who dedicated much of his life to the sport. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
For now, family, friends, and former players of Jackson remember him as both a talented athlete and a committed coach who inspired many throughout his career.
