The recent catastrophic flooding in Texas has taken a tragic turn, claiming the life of Dick Eastland, the camp director and co-owner of Camp Mystic in Hunt. Eastland, who had been integral to the camp since purchasing it in 1974, reportedly died while attempting to rescue his young campers as water surged through the site located along the Guadalupe River. A Facebook post from his nephew highlighted Eastland’s heroics, although it has since been removed. His selfless act has drawn widespread recognition from counselors, former campers, and local politicians, underscoring his dedication to nurturing young lives through his long tenure at Camp Mystic.
Among those paying tribute to Eastland was Congressman August Pfluger, who expressed his sorrow on X, stating that Eastland surely sacrificed his life to save the campers. Pfluger revealed that two of his daughters were at the camp during the evacuation and have since been reunited. This personal connection illustrates not only Eastland’s impact on his campers but also the broader community. Many within the camp family have shared how Eastland represented a father figure, shaping the character of each girl who attended camp through devotion and compassion.
Former camper Paige Sumner reflected on Eastland’s influence, emphasizing that his commitment to saving lives extended beyond the flood tragedy. In a heartfelt statement published in the Kerrville Daily Times, she noted that while it was tragic that his last act was one of sacrifice, it was entirely in line with the kind of person he had always been. Eastland’s legacy at Camp Mystic is imbued with moments of inspiration and mentorship, highlighting the profound impact he had on the lives of countless young women.
Camp counselor Katharine Somerville also shared her memories of Eastland, calling him one of the most selfless men ever encountered. She described him as an inspirational figure who provided comfort and guidance amid uncertainty, fostering a nurturing environment in the camp. His invocations of friendship and love left an indelible mark on campers and counselors alike, emphasizing community and support during their transformative summers at Camp Mystic.
The flooding incident was catastrophic, with reports indicating that around 750 attendees were present at the camp at the time. By Sunday afternoon, the death toll in Central Texas had reached nearly 70, with over a dozen campers confirmed deceased. The Kerr County Sheriff confirmed that of the recorded fatalities, 21 were children, which underscores the tragedy’s profound impact on families and the community at large. Local authorities continue searching for the missing, including several campers and a counselor, highlighting ongoing concerns for safety and recovery in the area.
As the community mourns, the story of Dick Eastland serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by those who dedicate their lives to others. From nurturing young minds to facing natural disasters, Eastland exemplified courage and sacrifice. As tributes flow in, from governmental figures to the very campers he impacted, the legacy of his compassion and dedication will likely endure, inspiring future generations at Camp Mystic and beyond.
