A three-year-old boy has died by drowning in his family swimming pool after his life vest was not properly fastened. 

James Joseph Farland Jr died Sunday at a home in Bleckley County, Georgia, and a coroner ruled his death was accidental. 

Coroner Michael Francis said the child was wearing a life vest, but it was not secured between his legs. 

He said this allowed the boy to slide into a dangerous position underwater, which proved fatal. 

'It's a freak accident,' Francis told local media outlets. 

His devastated parents have launched a GoFundMe page to cover his funeral costs. 

'My son tragically drowned in a pool, and we lost him far too soon,' his father, James Farland, wrote on the page. 

'This heartbreaking accident has changed our lives forever. My wife, myself, and our entire family are struggling to come to terms with his loss. 

'It's just not right that he is gone now, and the pain we feel is overwhelming. 

'We miss him every day, and the emptiness left behind is something we never imagined we would have to face.'

The boy's school, Bleckley County Primary School, also issued a statement about his death. 

'Our hearts are broken over the loss of sweet James, one of our precious little ones in our Project Step classroom at Bleckley Primary School,' the school wrote. 

'His beautiful smile, joyful spirit, and precious personality brought happiness to everyone around him. 

'James was dearly loved by his teacher Christina Herrington Murray, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

'There are simply no words to ease the pain of such a tragic loss. We grieve alongside his loved ones and pray that they find comfort and strength in the days ahead.'

Bleckley County Sheriff's Office warned parents to make sure their children are wearing properly-fitted US Coast Guard approved life vests. 

They advised checking that all straps are secured before the child enters the water. 

'Please use this tragic event as a reminder to be extra vigilant with pool safety around children,' the Bleckley County sheriff said.