Kerrville-based jewelry company James Avery mourns loss of young family member killed in flooding.
KERRVILLE, Texas — Texas-based company James Avery artisan jewelry is mourning the loss of a young family member who died in last week’s flash flooding.
The company’s chairman announced Friday that 8-year-old Renee Smajstrla died in the Kerr County floods.
She was a camper at Camp Mystic.
The camp has lost 27 campers and counselors in the flood.
The jewelry company — which was founded in Kerrville — has pledged one million dollars in flood aid and relief efforts.
The company says proceeds from their “Deep in the Heart of Texas” charm will support relief initiatives.
“We’re humbled by the support you’ve shown our friends and family in the Texas Hill Country and surrounding areas,” said a Facebook post. “The Deep in the Heart of Texas Charm sold out faster than we could have imagined.
“We’re now taking backorders and remain committed to donating proceeds from both the sterling silver and 14K gold charms ordered through August 4. Our facilities in the Hill Country reopened today, and we’ve begun crafting more charms. It may take up to six weeks or longer to fulfill all orders.”
More than 120 people have died in the devastating floods.
President Trump visited the state Friday and met with first responders.
Officials say at least 160 people are still missing.