A tragic incident on the flooded Guadalupe River on July 4, 2023, has forged an unbreakable connection between two families affected by a devastating loss. Carl Jeter and his son, Josh, sprang into action when they heard a young woman, Devyn Smith, calling for help as she clung to a tree in the rising waters. After alerting first responders, they provided comfort to Smith as she awaited the arrival of her family.
The incident has left a profound impact on both families, prompting the Jeters to create a memorial for those who lost their lives. They commissioned a banner that now hangs from a towering Cypress tree near the rescue site. The banner bears a heartfelt message: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18.” Carl Jeter explained, “We wanted to make something visible for people to reflect on and remember what occurred.”
Devyn Smith’s family suffered an immense tragedy, with the loss of five relatives, including her sister Kyndall Ramos, mother and stepfather Tasha and Joel Ramos, and aunt and uncle Michelle and Cody Crossland. Carl noted that Devyn spent several days in the hospital and that her family is understandably distraught. He described the emotional toll of the tragedy, stating, “Devyn is still vulnerable. I think she’s doing better emotionally, but she has a long road ahead.”
Members of Devyn’s extended family have actively searched the area where the family was swept away, covering approximately a dozen miles. They have expressed gratitude to the Jeters for their support and compassion. “They’ve come by twice to thank us and visit,” Carl shared. “We hugged, cried, and embraced. It feels like we’ve created a forever family connection.”
In the wake of the disaster, the community has rallied together to provide aid. Carl remarked on the overwhelming support from volunteers, stating, “There are hundreds, even thousands, who have been here every day since the flood.” He highlighted the resilience of local organizations, including the volunteer fire department, which faced significant challenges after taking on seven feet of water.
Josh Jeter took to social media to raise awareness about the needs of the Center Point Volunteer Fire Department. The response was immediate and staggering, with offers of support pouring in from across the nation. “People came from all corners of the state, from North Carolina, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and beyond,” Josh noted, expressing amazement at the community’s generosity. He estimated the value of heavy equipment donations at over $50 million, with contributions still arriving daily.
In addition to machinery, Josh shared that friends delivered donations worth close to $100,000 to the Hunt Volunteer Fire Department. “The outpouring of love and support from everywhere is remarkable and unbelievable,” he said, acknowledging that the community’s resilience is fueled by gratitude.
Josh emphasized the unity among those assisting, regardless of background. “Everybody here is here for the right reasons. It doesn’t matter what color your skin is or what your religion is; people want to help people,” he stated.
Stephanie Jeter, Carl’s wife, acknowledged the lingering sadness but encouraged a focus on the positive. “We need to look for the people that are helping, the little glimmers of happiness and good in all of this,” she said. “Life goes on, sadly, while we will be missing some people.”
As the community prepares for the possibility of more rain in the coming days, the Jeter family remains vigilant and hopeful for the future. Their bond with Devyn Smith’s family stands as a testament to the strength of human connections forged in times of tragedy.
