The Camp Mystic community, and indeed all who had the privilege of knowing him, are reeling from the heartbreaking and devastating loss of Richard “Dick” Eastland—a man whose life stood as a testament to service, leadership, and unconditional love. Dick, the beloved co-owner and director of Camp Mystic in the Texas Hill Country, passed away doing what he had always done best—protecting others. He died a hero amid the catastrophic flooding that struck the camp on July 4, 2025, as he worked tirelessly to help ensure the safety of those in his care.
For decades, Dick Eastland was the heartbeat of Camp Mystic, a cherished summer haven that shaped the lives of countless young girls and families across Texas and beyond. Generations knew him not simply as a camp director, but as a mentor, father figure, friend, and guiding light. With his signature sun hat, a gentle voice, and an unwavering presence, Dick represented the very best of what Camp Mystic stood for—tradition, kindness, strength, and faith.
Born into a legacy of stewardship and service, Dick embraced his role at Camp Mystic with profound commitment. Whether leading morning flag ceremonies, fixing a broken canoe, comforting a homesick camper, or offering words of encouragement to staff and parents alike, he showed up every single day with his whole heart. His leadership wasn’t loud—it was steady, quiet, and rooted in humility.
But on July 4, when flash floods overtook parts of the South Fork of the Guadalupe River and sent chaos rippling through the campgrounds, Dick Eastland gave his life so that others might live. He worked alongside fellow staff to help evacuate cabins, guide panicked campers to safety, and keep order in the face of unimaginable danger. His final moments, according to those who witnessed them, were defined by courage, not fear—by purpose, not panic.
“Dick died the way he lived,” said a longtime counselor. “Serving others. Putting others first. He stayed behind to help. And we’ll never forget what he gave for this place and these girls.”
The loss of Dick has left Camp Mystic without one of its most treasured pillars. But his legacy is indelible. He leaves behind not only his grieving family—who shared him with thousands every summer—but also an entire community of campers, alumni, parents, and staff whose lives he touched with quiet acts of grace and steadfast love.
Messages of grief and gratitude have poured in from across the country: from mothers whose daughters were comforted by his words, from staff who became leaders because he believed in them, and from Mystic alumnae now raising their own children with the values he helped instill.
His impact cannot be measured in years, but in the immeasurable ripple effect of a life lived in the service of others.
Honoring His Life
A memorial service celebrating Dick’s life will be held at Camp Mystic’s chapel, under the very oaks he helped preserve and the sky he watched over so many summers. It will be attended by those who called him friend, mentor, and family—not by blood, but by bond.
In lieu of flowers, the Eastland family has requested donations to a scholarship fund in Dick’s name, which will support future Mystic campers whose families may not otherwise have the means to attend—a fitting tribute to a man who believed camp should be a place for every girl to grow, thrive, and feel loved.
Though words will never be enough, we say them anyway, with full hearts:
Thank you, Dick. For the service. The sacrifice. The legacy. The love.
You gave your life as you gave your years—with open arms and an open heart.
Rest in peace, Richard “Dick” Eastland. Your light will forever shine over Mystic.
You were a protector, a builder, and a blessing. You were, and always will be, home.