Texas Mourns Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck After Camp Mystic Tragedy

HIGHLAND PARK, Texas — A community is heartbroken, families are grieving, and across Texas, green ribbons flutter quietly in the summer breeze—a simple tribute to Lila Bonner and Eloise Peck, two young girls whose lives were tragically lost during the July 4th flash flooding at Camp Mystic, a cherished summer tradition for generations of Texas families.

Lila, 9, and Eloise, 8, had just finished second grade at Bradfield Elementary School. They were best friends, cabinmates, and inseparable in life—now forever remembered side by side in death.

The two girls were among those swept away when the Guadalupe River overflowed in the early morning hours, following severe storms that struck Kerr County. As water surged through the campground, chaos unfolded. In the aftermath, communities across Dallas and the state began mourning two bright, joyful lives taken far too soon.

A Friendship That Lit Up Every Room

At Lila Bonner’s memorial service, held at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, a photo of her and Eloise smiling arm-in-arm was placed near the altar. It captured what words struggled to express: a friendship so full of joy, trust, and laughter that it seemed timeless, even in their short lives.

“They were the kind of friends who just belonged together,” said one teacher who knew them both. “They understood each other in that way children sometimes do—instantly and completely.”

Missy Peck, Eloise’s mother, spoke to FOX 4 News, sharing memories of her daughter and the bond she shared with Lila:

“Eloise was literally friends with everyone… She passed away with her cabinmate and best friend, Lila Bonner.”

Her words, filled with grief and love, echoed across a community that had watched the girls grow up side by side.

Green Ribbons, Grieving Hearts

In the days following the tragedy, residents of Highland Park and surrounding neighborhoods began tying green ribbons to trees, fences, and lampposts. Green is the color of Camp Mystic—symbolizing unity, friendship, and the spirit of summer. Now, it also stands as a symbol of remembrance.

The gesture spread quickly, not only through the streets of Dallas but throughout Texas. What began as a small act of mourning has become a movement of love, with ribbons appearing in schoolyards, church pews, mailboxes, and park benches.

One ribbon bore a handwritten message:

“Two best friends. Two second graders. Forever together.”

A Day of Prayer, A State in Mourning

On Sunday, July 7, Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a Day of Prayer for the families affected by the flood. Flags were lowered, churches held moments of silence, and thousands paused their lives to remember the children who never came home.

“The loss of Lila and Eloise is felt deeply across Texas,” the Governor said. “Their light lives on in the memories of those who loved them and the hearts of all who now carry their story.”

Camp Mystic, which has served girls for nearly a century, held a private remembrance for Lila, Eloise, and others impacted by the flood. Camp staff and alumni, many of whom formed lifelong bonds there, described the tragedy as one of the darkest moments in the camp’s history.

Remembering Lila and Eloise

Though their lives were short, Lila and Eloise left indelible marks on those who knew them.

Lila Bonner was described as curious, compassionate, and always eager to help others. She loved animals, dancing, and telling silly jokes. She had a gift for including everyone, making even the quietest classmate feel seen and loved.

Eloise Peck was creative, thoughtful, and wise beyond her years. She loved drawing, music, and spending time with her family. Her teachers called her a “gentle leader,” someone who naturally brought people together.

Their school, Bradfield Elementary, is preparing a memorial garden in their honor, with plans to include a reading bench, wind chimes, and flowers selected by their classmates.

A Legacy of Love

The families of Lila and Eloise have received an overwhelming wave of support—from neighbors, classmates, church communities, and complete strangers moved by the girls’ story. In lieu of flowers, both families have encouraged donations to causes close to the girls’ hearts: animal shelters, children’s literacy programs, and summer camp scholarships.

In the coming months, the Bonner and Peck families plan to organize a joint celebration of life—one that will reflect the deep bond the girls shared, and the many lives they brightened along the way.

“They were best friends in life,” said a family member. “And now, they will rest together—forever best friends.”