The devastating floods over the July 4 weekend in Central Texas have left families grieving and communities shattered. Among the victims was 21-year-old Joyce Catherine Badon, whose body was recovered after a days-long search following a flash flood in Hunt, Texas.Joyce had been celebrating with friends when a sudden flood swept through their riverside house around 4 a.m., washing away vehicles and trapping the group. Her parents, Ty and Kelleye Badon, confirmed her death and thanked the public for their support. Joyce was on the phone with Thad Heartfield, father of her friend Aidan, when she and the others were swept away. Her final words were: “They just got washed away.”

Also missing from that group are Ella Cahill, Reese Manchaca, and Aidan Heartfield. Joyce and Reese have since been confirmed dead; Ella and Aidan remain unaccounted for.Another heartbreaking loss came from Camp Mystic in Kerr County, where 9-year-old Lila Bonner and 8-year-old Eloise Peck—best friends and cabinmates from Dallas—were confirmed dead.

They were among 18 girls initially reported missing from the camp. A third girl, Hadley Hanna, was still missing as of July 6.Eloise’s mother remembered her daughter as a kind-hearted animal lover with a deep love for her family. The two girls died side by side, leaving behind a wave of grief in their wake.As search efforts continue, the stories of Joyce, Lila, and Eloise highlight the deep, cross-generational impact of the floods, a tragedy that has united families, friends, and communities in sorrow and support.