ATLANTA – A youth sports activities group is elevating cash to assist help the household of an Atlanta father and coach who drowned whereas making an attempt to save lots of others whereas on spring break.

On April 6, Charles Johnson II, his household, and household associates have been having a day on the Gulf of Mexico when the group noticed 4 kids struggling within the water.

One of many different household’s kids, 16-year-old Bryce Brooks, jumped within the water to attempt to rescue the youngsters, however acquired pulled underneath making an attempt to assist the strangers.

Johnson, who Brooks referred to as “Uncle Chuck,” additionally bumped into the water to try to rescue the group and was pulled underneath as nicely. Strangers finally pulled each Brooks and Johnson out of the water. The 2 have been airlifted to the hospital, the place they have been pronounced useless.

In a GoFundMe, Wholesome Life, Wholesome Children says that “Coach Chuck,” recognized by many as “BigChucka” made an enormous contribution to youth sports activities in Atlanta.

“He was recognized for his infectious smile and his love of mentoring and serving to others. Coach Chuck had a singular means to create a neighborhood village that introduced households collectively,” the group wrote on the fundraising web page. “The character of his passing speaks to the particular person he was, and the devotion he needed to his family members.”

The web page has a $75,000 objective and has up to now raised over $25,000 from a whole bunch of individuals.

All the cash will go on to Johnson’s spouse Lynn and their three boys to assist pay for his or her school tuition.

On Thursday, April sixth, 2023, Charles Edward Johnson II (Coach Chuck) misplaced his life in an try to save lots of two younger males (a household pal and one other unknown particular person) in misery at a Florida seaside whereas on trip with household and associates. This loss touches our neighborhood deeply, as Coach Chuck and his household have made such an enormous contribution to youth sports activities and the Atlanta neighborhood.

Affectionately recognized by many as “BigChucka,” he was recognized for his infectious smile and his love of mentoring and serving to others. Coach Chuck had a singular means to create a neighborhood village that introduced households collectively. The character of his passing speaks to the particular person he was, and the devotion he needed to his family members.

Coach Chuck’s compassion for the HLHK (Well being Life, Wholesome Children Inc.) JayHawks basketball program, Maynard, and Wesley neighborhood knew no bounds. He gave selflessly to a whole bunch of children who had the need to play sports activities. Not solely did he coach Boys’ and Women’ basketball, however he additionally coached baseball and flag soccer. He served others in doing God’s work with the motto “Household First,” making household and the households he labored with central in his life. Coach Chuck had a objective to make an affect in every of the youngsters’ lives he touched. And that he did!

The tragic lack of our beloved Coach Chuck touched so many hearts… many whom have reached out to ask how they’ll help the Johnson household. In lieu of flowers, please think about donating to honor his reminiscence and contribute to the legacy of a pricey husband, father, son, brother, coach, and neighborhood chief.

The cash raised by means of this fund will go on to his spouse Lynn, and their three boys Bryce, Brandon, and Braylen, as they’re in and nearing school.