When severe flooding struck central Texas last Friday, many lives were affected—but one story has especially touched hearts across the country. Jeff Ramsey, 61, was staying at the HTR RV Park in Kerrville with his wife, Tanya, 46, when their peaceful evening turned tragic.
The Guadalupe River overflowed without warning, causing massive destruction. As the floodwaters surged, Jeff and Tanya’s Airstream trailer was caught in the current. With no time to escape, Jeff did something remarkable—he called his loved ones to say goodbye.
Realizing the danger they were in, Jeff left a voicemail for his son, Jake:
“Buddy, I love you so much. It doesn’t look like we’re going to make it. Tell Rachey I love her.”
He also left a final message for his daughter, Rachel. These calls, made in his last moments, became a heartbreaking yet powerful reminder of a father’s deep love and courage.
Jake later revealed that an emergency alert from the RV park came too late. By the time Jeff saw it, the trailer had already been swept away. But even as danger loomed, Jeff reached out to save others—he called Tanya’s mother and brother, who were staying nearby. Thanks to his warning, they were able to evacuate safely.
Tanya’s body was later recovered. Jeff remains missing, and search efforts continue. Despite the pain, his family hopes his story will lead to improvements in emergency response systems to prevent future tragedies.
Jeff and Tanya were both known for their compassion and service to others. Tanya, a breast cancer survivor, managed a wig boutique in Dallas where she helped women regain confidence during their treatment. Jeff, a longtime insurance professional, volunteered with the Adaptive Training Foundation, helping people recover from serious injuries.
To Jake and Rachel, Tanya was more than a stepmother—she was simply “Mom.”
Tributes have poured in from all who knew the couple. Jeff’s close friend, Morris Brossette, shared:
“You will be hard-pressed to find a man with a bigger servant’s heart. Rest easy, my brother. We will carry your name with love and light.”
In the midst of this heartbreak, a small piece of comfort came when the couple’s rescue dog, Chloe, was found safe at a nearby animal shelter. Her survival brought a glimmer of hope to a grieving family.
Jake has since met with Texas State Senator Tan Parker to discuss the need for better emergency alert systems. While no policy can undo their loss, the family hopes that Jeff’s final act of love will inspire change—and save lives in the future.
In a storm that impacted so many, Jeff Ramsey’s story stands out as a powerful reminder of love, sacrifice, and the strength of the human spirit. His final words echo across the nation—not just as farewells, but as a lasting symbol of a father’s devotion in the face of unimaginable tragedy.