As of early Monday morning, the heartbreaking death toll from the catastrophic Texas flash floods has climbed to 82, including at least 20 children. The tragic events unfolded over the 4th of July weekend, leaving communities shattered and rescue teams racing against time.
Among the many heroes who risked everything was Dick Eastland, the devoted 70-year-old director of Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp for girls. Eastland tragically lost his life Saturday while courageously attempting to save campers caught in the raging floodwaters of the Guadalupe River.
The Guadalupe River surged dramatically—rising 26 feet in just 45 minutes on Friday—sending a deadly wall of water sweeping through the campgrounds. Twenty-seven girls from Camp Mystic remain missing as search and rescue operations continue relentlessly.
In the face of disaster, first responders, the US Coast Guard, and local residents united to find survivors. Dick Eastland was among those ordinary citizens who became extraordinary in the crisis, putting others before himself until his last breath.
Eastland’s nephew, Gardner Eastland, confirmed his passing in a heartfelt Facebook post on Saturday (since removed), while his wife, Tweety Eastland, was found safe at their home.
Texas Representative August Pfluger, whose daughters were among the rescued campers, honored Eastland’s sacrifice on social media:
“Camp Mystic’s Dick Eastland no doubt gave his life attempting to save his campers. For decades, he and his wife Tweety poured their hearts into nurturing girls and women of character. Thank you, Mr. Eastland. We love you and miss you.”
Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly told The Washington Post that Eastland died en route to a Houston hospital, aboard a rescue helicopter. A father of four and grandfather of eleven, Dick was part of a family legacy deeply intertwined with Camp Mystic, which has been running since 1926.
His eldest son, Richard, managed the camp kitchen, while his youngest son Edward and daughter-in-law directed Camp Mystic Guadalupe River. Dick was the third generation in his family to run the beloved camp.
Though details remain unclear about the exact circumstances of his final heroic act, Eastland’s legacy shines brightly. He was a survivor of brain cancer and a mentor to countless campers, teaching fishing and embodying a caring, fatherly presence.
Former camper Paige Sumner reflected on Eastland’s impact in the Kerrville Daily Times:
“Dick was the father figure to all of us while we were away at Camp Mystic for six weeks. He had four sons but hundreds of girls looked up to him like a dad. I never would have taken a fishing class if it wasn’t taught by my friend Dick.”
Sumner added, “It doesn’t surprise me that his last act was to save lives. He has already given so many through Camp Mystic.”
Beyond the camp, Eastland served on the Hunt Independent School District Board and coached local youth sports teams, spreading his spirit of guidance and kindness throughout the community.
On Sunday, camp counselor Kathatine Somerville described Eastland as “one of the most selfless men in the world.”
“He was a comforting force in uncertain times, an inspiration to many. He guided us in faith and friendship, always encouraging us to share love and kindness.”
Our hearts go out to Dick Eastland, his family, and all who were lost in the Guadalupe River floods. May their memories be a beacon of hope and courage amid this tragedy.