In Loving Memory of Kellyanne Lytal
A Brave Spirit, A Loving Heart, A Precious Life Gone Too Soon
With deepest sorrow and heavy hearts, we share the news that Kellyanne Lytal, the beloved 8-year-old camper from Camp Mystic, has been found and has passed away following the devastating flash floods that struck the Texas Hill Country on July 4th, 2025.
Her family, full of courage and grace even in the face of unimaginable loss, reached out to confirm this heartbreaking update. Their sweet Kellyanne is now in the arms of her Savior—the Jesus she believed in so deeply, spoke of so freely, and loved with a heart that was wise beyond her years.
Born with a light that shined bright, Kellyanne was kind, fearless, loving, and delightfully silly. She had a gift for making friends instantly, for laughing loudest at the little things, and for reminding others how beautiful the world could be through the eyes of a child. She ran into each day with open arms—whether it was a campfire singalong, a muddy adventure by the river, or quiet time reading her Bible before bed. Every moment was filled with joy, curiosity, and love.
She loved friendship bracelets, the color purple, and asking the biggest questions about God. She was the first to offer a hug and the last to leave a game if someone was left out. Her faith was not just something she talked about—it was something she lived, with pure conviction and joy.
During the early morning hours of July 4th, when the river rose and chaos swept through Camp Mystic, Kellyanne’s cabin was caught in the devastation. For days, her family and community clung to hope, prayed without ceasing, and believed in the possibility of a miracle. That miracle now comes not in the way we hoped—but in the peace of knowing that Kellyanne is safe and whole, wrapped in the eternal love of God.
Her family shared this message:
“Kellyanne was everything we ever hoped for in a daughter. She loved Jesus with her whole heart. She was brave, kind, silly, and loved others deeply. We thank every single person who helped look for her. Your prayers, your work, your love carried us through the darkest hours. We will never be able to express how much that meant to us.”
This tragedy has rippled far beyond the Hill Country. It has shaken hearts across Texas and the nation—but within the heartbreak, we are reminded of how one small life can leave the deepest mark. Kellyanne’s legacy is not in how she left this world, but in how she lived in it—with courage, laughter, faith, and unshakable love.
Plans for a memorial and ways to support the Lytal family will be shared in the days ahead. For now, we ask that you hold them in your hearts and lift them in your prayers. This grief is overwhelming, but it is shared—and surrounded by a community who will not let Kellyanne’s memory fade.
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these.” – Matthew 19:14
Rest in peace, sweet Kellyanne.