In the wake of devastating floods that swept through the Texas Hill Country, an update has emerged that is both profoundly heartbreaking and deeply inspiring. 8-year-old Renee Smajstrla, a joyful camper at Camp Mystic, has tragically been confirmed among those lost in the floodwaters.
Just a day before the disaster, Renee’s bright smile—captured in a photo now widely shared—radiated the pure joy of childhood, summer, and adventure. Her image has since touched hearts across the state and beyond. Now, the sorrow surrounding her loss is felt all the more deeply by those who knew her personally—and by a company many Texans hold dear.
A Personal Loss for the James Avery Family
It has been confirmed that Renee Smajstrla was part of the James Avery Jewelry family, a company beloved for its handcrafted charms and jewelry that celebrate faith, love, and heritage. Headquartered in Kerrville, Texas, the same region now reeling from flood devastation, the company has long been a fixture in the Hill Country community.
James Avery’s Chairman and CEO released a heartfelt statement acknowledging Renee’s passing, calling it a “deeply personal loss for all of us.” As both a family member and symbol of the community they cherish, Renee’s death has brought the tragedy painfully close to home.
Turning Grief Into Generosity
In Renee’s honor, James Avery Jewelry has announced a $1 million donation to aid in flood relief efforts throughout the affected areas of the Texas Hill Country. Additionally, the company has committed all proceeds from the sale of their iconic “Deep in the Heart of Texas” charm to directly support families impacted by the floods.
“Renee was a child full of light and kindness. Her legacy will now live on in a way that brings comfort and support to others,” said the company in a public statement. “This is how she would want to be remembered—by helping.”
A Legacy That Shines
Renee was known by those around her for her compassion, her laughter, and her love of nature. She was the kind of child who lifted others simply by being herself—joyful, kind, and full of curiosity. Her death is an unspeakable loss to her family, friends, fellow campers, and the entire Hill Country community.
And yet, in the shadow of this sorrow, something beautiful has begun to grow: a legacy of love and aid that will continue to touch lives long after the floodwaters recede. Through the contributions made in her name, Renee’s spirit—so vibrant and giving—will live on, not just in memories, but in the healing that follows tragedy.
A Call to Remember and Support
We ask that you hold Renee Smajstrla’s family and all those grieving in the Texas Hill Country close in your thoughts and prayers. And if you’re looking for a way to honor Renee’s life and support flood relief, consider purchasing the “Deep in the Heart of Texas” charm or donating directly to the organizations working to rebuild these beloved communities.
Renee may have only had eight years on this earth, but the impact of her light—and the love now given in her name—is boundless.
Rest in peace, sweet Renee. May your memory continue to shine, deep in the heart of Texas.
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