The body of a 9-year-old camper who tragically lost her life during the Texas floods has been identified, thanks to a heartfelt gift from her grandmother. Jane Hunt was one of the many campers and counselors who perished during the flooding incident at Camp Mystic over the Fourth of July weekend. Her family is now mourning her loss while remembering her as a special and beloved little girl.
Jane’s grandmother, Margaret Hunt, shared fond memories of Jane with PEOPLE, emphasizing how Jane cherished life and everyone around her. Margaret described Jane as a bright and precocious child who had a passion for theatre. She recounted how a necklace gifted to Jane following a play performance played a crucial role in identifying her body after the tragedy. The necklace, adorned with beads spelling out Jane’s name, helped the family confirm her identity.
Tragically, Jane’s body was discovered alongside Camp Mystic owner Dick Eastland, who lost his life while trying to save campers during the floods. Margaret revealed that it was Jane’s first year at Camp Mystic, driven by her desire to spend time with her cousins, whom she shared a close bond with. Despite her young age, Jane had already shown signs of compassion and support for her fellow campers, offering comfort to those feeling homesick.
Described as the “heartbeat” of her family, Jane was known for her adventurous spirit, kindness, and generosity towards others. Her passion for art shone through as she dreamt of becoming an artist in the future. Jane’s artistic talents were showcased when she was selected to display her artwork at a local art show, where she presented a drawing of hearts that filled her with pride.
In addition to her artistry, Jane was also a member of her school’s choir and had a favourite song, “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” which will be sung by her cousins at her funeral as a tribute to her memory. The Hunt family is finding solace in the positive letters Jane had written from camp, expressing her love for the experience and her friends, showcasing her joyful and optimistic nature.
Jane’s funeral is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, July 15, with her grief-stricken parents, Davin and Anne Lindsey Hunt, finding support in their community during this challenging time. As they navigate their profound loss, Jane’s family is holding onto cherished memories of her vibrant personality and the joy she brought to those around her. The community has rallied around the grieving family, providing love and strength as they mourn the loss of their beloved Jane.
The tragedy that unfolded during the Texas floods has left deep scars on families and communities, with Jane’s story serving as a poignant reminder of the precious lives lost. As they come to terms with their grief, Jane’s family is honouring her memory and the light she brought into their lives, holding onto the love and positivity she shared with the world.