In Loving Memory of Molly DeWitt (2016–2025): A Shining Light Gone Too Soon
It is with unimaginable sorrow and heartbreak that we share the tragic news of the passing of 9-year-old Molly DeWitt, whose little body was recently found after an intensive search. Molly, a bright and spirited camper at Camp Mystic and a beloved member of the Houston, Texas community, has been sadly confirmed deceased. The devastating news has sent waves of grief across her family, friends, fellow campers, and all who came to know and love her.
Molly’s disappearance had gripped the hearts of many over the past several days. Hopes soared, prayers were lifted, and countless volunteers joined search efforts, refusing to give up on the possibility of bringing her home safe. But the heartbreaking discovery has left an entire community reeling—a loss so profound that words seem too fragile to hold the weight of such sorrow.
Molly was the kind of child whose presence could light up a room. With a wide, joyful smile and a soul as gentle as a summer breeze, she was curious about the world and fearless in her approach to it. Whether she was laughing with her friends at camp, exploring nature trails, or singing campfire songs under the stars, Molly embodied a sense of wonder and adventure that touched everyone she met.
Her time at Camp Mystic, a place known for fostering faith, friendship, and fun, was filled with excitement and growth. Camp counselors and fellow campers remember Molly as kind-hearted, imaginative, and deeply compassionate. She made fast friends and left a lasting impression—her enthusiasm for life and her love of nature were simply contagious.
Back home in Houston, Molly was the pride and joy of her family. A beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, and niece, she was the heartbeat of her household—full of energy, boundless love, and a giggle that made any day brighter. Her family often described her as their “sunbeam,” a little girl with a heart too big for her age and an empathy that seemed to come from another world.
The loss of Molly has left a wound that will never fully heal. It is a sorrow no parent should bear, no sibling should endure, and no community should have to face. But amid this unimaginable tragedy, there is also a powerful reflection of how deeply Molly was loved. Tributes have poured in from across Texas and beyond—schoolteachers, friends, parents of fellow campers, and total strangers have all come together to share in mourning, and to offer support and comfort to Molly’s grieving family.
Plans for a memorial service will be shared in the coming days, and it will be open to all who wish to honor Molly’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Molly’s memory to organizations that support children’s safety, outdoor education, and grief counseling for young people. They hope that through these efforts, other children can find joy in nature, form lasting friendships at camp, and return home safely.
As we try to comprehend this loss, we cling to the love Molly brought into this world. Though her life was far too short, her impact was mighty. She reminded us of the beauty in small things—raindrops on leaves, laughter echoing across a field, the magic of stargazing. And in her memory, we will hold each other a little closer, love a little deeper, and cherish the fragile, fleeting moments of life.
To Molly’s family: our hearts are with you. We cannot imagine the pain you are feeling, but we stand with you in love, in grief, and in remembrance. May the light of Molly’s soul continue to shine in every life she touched and in every heart that holds her memory dear.
Rest peacefully, sweet Molly. You were deeply loved. You will never be forgotten.