Beloved Camp Director Remembered Following Tragic Texas Flood
A community mourns the loss of Jane Ragsdale, a cherished figure in Kerr County, Texas, who tragically lost her life during the devastating July Fourth flood. Known for her vibrant spirit and dedication to others, Ragsdale’s name evokes both tears and smiles among those who knew her.
Heart O’ the Hills camper Sydney Sutton shared a touching photo with Ragsdale just after the summer session concluded. Ragsdale, renowned as the owner and director of Heart O’ the Hills camp for girls, left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. “Everybody’s friendly here, but she embodied that friendliness and generosity and love for others,” said Karen Taylor from nearby Hunt, Texas.
Erika Sutton
Ragsdale’s legacy extends beyond her role at the camp. Born into a family of camp owners, she began her journey with Heart O’ the Hills in her childhood, eventually taking charge by 1988. Despite the camp being between sessions during the flood, Ragsdale was its sole victim, unlike the tragic events at Camp Mystic where at least 27 perished.
Kathy Simmons, a friend of Ragsdale, recalled a recent candlelight service at the camp, saying, “Jane always led the children in songs. And every one of those girls and those counselors absolutely idolized her.”
Kerrville Daily Times
Beyond the summer sessions, Ragsdale volunteered in Guatemala, using her skills as an interpreter and project organizer. Her friend Mindy Wendele, president of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce, described her as “one of the most genuine, kind, honest people” with an unforgettable smile.
Kerr County now faces a significant recovery effort, with Ragsdale’s absence felt deeply. “Oh, she would be out there volunteering. She would be out there clearing property,” Simmons reflected. Ragsdale’s influence endures, leaving a lasting impact on the community and the countless girls who passed through Heart O’ the Hills camp.
For more on the flooding, visit NPR’s coverage.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
