That’s how those who knew Chloe Childress, 18, are remembering her in the wake of a heartbreaking tragedy that has shaken communities across Texas and beyond.
Chloe was among the counselors at Camp Mystic in Hunt, Texas, who lost their lives during the catastrophic July 4th weekend floods. As the Guadalupe River swelled and overtook parts of the camp, Chloe—true to who she had always been—acted selflessly, trying to help others in danger. She didn’t hesitate. She stepped in. And in doing so, she gave her life.
At least 11 young women and girls were killed in the Camp Mystic flooding. Chloe was one of them.
A recent graduate of The Kinkaid School in Houston, Chloe was just weeks away from starting her next chapter at the University of Texas at Austin. Her future was full of possibility, and her past was already rich with purpose.
She served as co-president of the Honor Council, ran varsity cross-country, and founded a student-led service club that provided companionship and support to senior citizens—acts that reflected not just involvement, but intentional leadership. She built communities wherever she went and lived with a sense of duty far beyond her years.
In a letter to the school community, Kinkaid Headmaster Jonathan Eades wrote:
“Her honesty gave others the courage to speak up. Her resilience helped others push through. Her joy, so present in the little things, reminded all who knew her to keep showing up with heart.”
Chloe was the kind of person who did the hard thing simply because it was right. She led quietly but powerfully. She loved fiercely. She lived selflessly.
Her story is one among many in the wake of this devastating flood, which has now claimed at least 78 lives across Texas, including 28 children, most of them in Kerr County. The search for the missing continues.
Tonight, as families across the state grieve, Chloe’s family is holding onto the example she left behind—a legacy of courage, kindness, and unwavering love.
May we remember her not only for how she died, but for how she lived: with open hands, an open heart, and a fierce commitment to others.
Rest in peace, Chloe. You showed us the best of what we can be.
