As devastating flash floods tore through central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend, they left behind a staggering toll: more than 80 lives lost, at least 28 of them children. Among them were young campers at the century-old Camp Mystic, longtime educators, parents, and community leaders—each with a story, each deeply mourned. While the state grapples with grief and ongoing rescue efforts, here’s what we know about some of the lives lost in the Texas flooding.
See also: Texas Flooding: What Happened, Where It Went Wrong, and Who’s Accountable
Remembering the Lives Lost in the Texas Flooding
Chloe Childress, 18
A camp counselor at Mystic and recent graduate of The Kinkaid School, Chloe was set to start college at UT Austin this fall. Her family said she radiated joy and grace, and Kinkaid’s head described her as someone who “helped build community” with a rare compassion.
Sarah Marsh, 8
From Alabama, Sarah was attending Camp Mystic when she lost her life. Her grandmother called her a “spunky ray of light” who would be remembered forever. She would’ve entered third grade this August.
Renee Smajstrla, 8
Another young camper at Mystic, Renee had just been photographed in a pink top, grinning with joy. Her uncle said she would be “forever living her best life” at camp.
Janie Hunt, 9
A great-granddaughter of oil baron William Herbert Hunt, Janie died during the floods while attending camp with her cousins. Her grandmother said her parents had to identify her at a funeral home.
Blair and Brooke Harber, 13 and 11
The Harber sisters were swept away while staying in a riverside cabin with their grandparents. Their bodies were found together 15 miles away. They were known for their kindness, humor, and love of theater, sports, and speech.
Julian Ryan, 27
Julian died while trying to save his fiancée, children, and mother from rising floodwaters in their trailer. After placing his kids on a mattress, he broke a window to escape but suffered a fatal wound. His final words:
“I love you. I’m so sorry.”
Richard “Dick” Eastland
The co-owner and co-director of Camp Mystic, Dick died trying to save campers in the Bubble Inn cabin. He was beloved by thousands of former campers and seen as a father figure, mentor, and servant leader.
Jane Ragsdale
Director of Heart O’ the Hills Camp for Girls, Jane had devoted her life to camp leadership and community service. Her death shook both the camp and her church community, where she was known for her radiant personality.
Katheryn Eads
A counselor and professor, Katheryn died after being swept away while escaping floodwaters in an RV with her husband. Her family remembered her as someone who dedicated her life to helping children.
Reece and Paula Zunker
Reece, a teacher and soccer coach, and his wife Paula, a former educator, both died in the floods. Their children remain missing. Reece was known for rebuilding the school’s soccer program and mentoring students.
Jeff Wilson
A beloved teacher from Humble, Texas, Jeff had taught for over 30 years. He died during a family camping trip; his wife and son are still missing.
Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck, both 9
Best friends and Dallas natives, both girls died in the flood while attending Camp Mystic. Their families have asked for privacy as they grieve.
Bobby and Amanda Martin, 46 and 44
The couple died when their vehicle was swept away near the river. Bobby, an avid outdoorsman, and Amanda were remembered as warm, generous, and loving.
Tanya Burwick, 62
A Walmart employee in San Angelo, Tanya was on her way to work when she was caught in the flood. Her family remembered her laugh and the joy she brought into every room.
Sally Sample Graves
A grandmother whose home was destroyed by floodwaters in Kerrville. Her family said her dedication to loved ones left an indelible mark.
See also: Everything We Know About the Victims of the San Diego Plane Crash—And the Lives Behind the Headlines
The list continues to grow as officials work to identify the remaining victims. But even as names are released, the weight of this tragedy goes beyond numbers. These were parents, children, mentors, and friends—people whose lives were suddenly and violently taken in a place meant for joy, growth, and community. In honoring their stories, we hold onto their memory.
If You Need Help—or Want to Help Others
If you or your community have been impacted by the Texas flooding and need assistance or support, resources are available through local emergency management offices and grief counseling centers.
How to Donate to Texas Flood Victims
In the wake of the deadly Texas floods, a variety of aid groups, nonprofits, and organizations are accepting donations to help victims and assist in the recovery effort:
- The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country has started the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, which will provide aid to vetted organizations in Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, Center Point, and surrounding areas.
- GoFundMe has a continuously updated page for verified fundraisers connected to flood victims and their families.
- World Central Kitchen is on the ground delivering meals to affected families.
- The Salvation Army is distributing emergency supplies and operating a mobile kitchen in the disaster area.
Every contribution helps support those navigating unimaginable loss and the long road to rebuilding.
