ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - The City of Albany has released a statement following Ward 6 Commissioner Demetrius Young tragic passing.

According to Dougherty County Coroner Michael Fowler, Demetrius Young, 53, died in the emergency room at Phoebe Sunday afternoon at around 4:26 p.m.

The City of Albany is saddened to report the sudden and unexpected passing of Cmmr.

Demetrius Young. Demetrius is survived by his four daughters, Jamiya, Nubia, Kenya, and Ericka.

An Albany native, Cmmr. Young was the son of Hank Young, a successful realtor, and Mary Young Cummings, an attorney who was one of Albany’s first African American City Commissioners and a longtime state representative. He was a proud graduate of both Monroe Comprehensive High School and Albany State University. Demetrius also received a certification in Computer Installation/Maintenance and Computer Networking from Albany Technical College and had a 25- year career in Information Technology.

Cmmr. Young lived in Colorado for ten years prior to returning to Albany. He was elected to represent Ward 6 on the City Commission in 2019 and had no opposition in 2023. After taking office, Demetrius committed to use his education and experience to improve the quality of life for his constituents.

Cmmr. Young worked tirelessly to protect and expand voter access, was an advocate for minority and disadvantaged businesses, and fought to assure the City invested in disadvantaged neighborhoods in south and east Albany. During his term in office, the City has enhanced Driskell Park, has allocated funding to rebuild Henderson Gym and renovate the Ritz Theatre, and facilitated the construction of new homes in south Albany. Cmmr. Young was instrumental in each of these projects.

“Cmmr. Young was a champion for his constituents -- unyielding and unapologetic. The substantial improvements and investment in Ward 6 are a testament to his commitment to our community, which will realize benefit from his service for years to come,” said Mayor Bo Dorough. Mayor Dorough, on behalf of the City Commission, has extended heartfelt condolences to Demetrius’ family and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 4th at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Further details will be provided once the arrangements are confirmed.

May Commissioner Demetrius Young rest in peace.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 4th at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Further details will be provided once the arrangements are confirmed.

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