On Independence Day, RJ and Annie Harber lost both of their daughters and RJ’s parents to sudden floods in Kerr County, Texas. In the wake of devastating loss, they have leaned on their faith, community, and each other as they navigate a haunting grief that has transformed their lives.
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They couldn’t save their daughters’ lives in the July 4 floods. Now they’re dealing with the grief and the guilt.
Photo by The Texas Tribune
Key Takeaways:
- Four family members lost on July 4
- Faith as a key source of comfort for RJ and Annie
- Community support helping the grieving process
- Guilt and trauma remain long after the tragedy
- The lasting impact of the floods on the family’s daily life
The Harbers’ Unimaginable Loss
RJ and Annie Harber’s world changed forever on July 4, when floodwaters swept through Kerr County, Texas. In a single night, they lost their two daughters and RJ’s parents, turning the holiday into a moment of unimaginable tragedy.
A Community Devastated by Floods
Kerr County found itself at the mercy of sudden and severe flooding. For the Harbers, the rising waters became an unrelenting force, leaving them unable to save their daughters and RJ’s mother and father. The shock of that night still resonates in every corner of their lives.
Leaning on Faith and Community
In the aftermath, RJ and Annie have clung to their faith as an anchor. Their church, neighbors, and friends have surrounded them with support, offering a semblance of comfort amid the heartbreak. Whether through prayers or simple thoughts of encouragement, the Harbers have witnessed the power of communal solidarity.
Guilt in Grief
For RJ and Annie, the grief has come hand in hand with a profound sense of guilt. They have found it difficult to shake the memories of that fateful night and the belief that they failed to protect their family. Each sunrise brings a reminder of what was lost, fueling an ongoing battle between anguish and acceptance.
Moving Through Each Day
Although the pain is deep, RJ and Annie have not faced it alone. Guided by faith and community, they take each day as it comes, finding small moments of solace and hope. The July 4 floods may have claimed the lives of their loved ones, but the Harbers continue to honor their family by looking forward, embodied by the strength they share each step of the way.
