In Memory of Jane Ragsdale: A Life Devoted to Service

Heart O' the Hills camp director Jane Ragsdale was tragically claimed by the floods in Kerr County, Texas, on the 4th of July.

Known for spending her summers beside the Guadalupe River, it was the very waters that took her life one week ago. The name Jane Ragsdale evokes both tears and warm smiles among Kerrville's residents.

Karen Taylor, a resident of Hunt, Texas, spoke of how deeply people admired Ragsdale. Jane's presence symbolized the welcoming and generous spirit of West Kerr County. Taylor continues, 'Life without her seems unimaginable.'

The Legacy of a Camp Leader

In her late 60s, Jane Ragsdale was much more than the director of the girls' camp Heart O' the Hills; she represented its heart and soul. Her start in this role seemed fated, as she was nine years old when her family acquired Camp Stewart for boys, followed by Heart O' the Hills a decade later.

Ragsdale seamlessly took the helm in 1988, with her leadership leaving a permanent imprint on the camp.

Unlike nearby Camp Mystic, Heart O' the Hills was unoccupied during the floods, and Ragsdale was the only life lost at the camp.

A Community Pillar Remembered

Kathy Simmons, a close friend, spoke of Ragsdale's unparalleled kindness and strength. Simmons recalled being at the camp the week before the disaster, describing a moving candlelight service led by Ragsdale—a memory cherished by all who attended.

Heart O' the Hills wasn’t just a camp, it was a place where youngsters learned lifelong skills, from riding horses to cooking, thanks to Ragsdale’s comprehensive teaching.

Passion Beyond the Camp

Even outside camp seasons, Ragsdale’s compassion shone as she volunteered in Guatemala, translating and organizing projects. This mission began in her teens when she was studying journalism.

Mindy Wendele, president of the Kerrville Area Chamber of Commerce, reminisced about her time with Ragsdale, describing her as genuine, wise, and unforgettably warm-hearted.

Her vibrant involvement with local institutions and her unforgettable presence left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

The Upcoming Challenges Without Her

The floods have left a path of destruction, with much of Kerr County's riverside needing repair. As the community rallies for restoration, they acutely feel the absence of Ragsdale's guiding hand.

Friend and colleague Simmons noted that Ragsdale would have been at the forefront of recovery efforts, eager to assist anyone in need.

Though her life was cut short, Jane Ragsdale’s impact on Kerr County and the many young hearts she nurtured will endure for years to come.