Country Star Jelly Roll Mourns Tragic Death of 9-Year-Old Cousin in Texas Flood
July 9, 2025 | Austin, Texas
Country music star Jelly Roll and his family are in mourning following the heartbreaking death of his 9-year-old cousin, Roger DeFord, who tragically lost his life during a flash flood that struck a summer camp in Hunt, Texas over the weekend.
The flood, described by local officials as “catastrophic,” hit Camp Mystic, a Christian-based summer camp nestled along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County. Heavy rainfall overwhelmed the area late Friday night, quickly turning peaceful campgrounds into dangerous torrents of water. Despite swift evacuation efforts by camp staff and emergency crews, several children were swept away by the rushing current. Among the confirmed fatalities was young Roger DeFord.
“He Was Just a Baby”
Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, shared the devastating news on social media Monday morning with a raw and emotional message.
“My heart is shattered. We lost my little cousin Roger in the flood. He was only 9. He had the brightest smile, the loudest laugh, and a heart bigger than the sky,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “He was just a baby. I can’t believe this is real.”
The 39-year-old Grammy-nominated artist, known for blending country, rap, and rock influences in his music, often speaks publicly about family, faith, and redemption. But fans say this may be the most personal loss he’s ever shared.
A family spokesperson later confirmed that Roger was attending Camp Mystic with several friends from church when the flood struck around 11:30 p.m. Friday. Camp counselors attempted to evacuate the children to higher ground, but the speed and intensity of the floodwaters overwhelmed them.
A Devastating Scene in Hunt, Texas
According to the Kerr County Sheriff’s Office, the area received over 6 inches of rain in just two hours. The Guadalupe River quickly rose above its banks, sending walls of water into low-lying cabins and recreation areas. Emergency crews rescued dozens of campers, but three children went missing during the chaos. Two were later found alive, clinging to tree limbs downstream. Roger’s body was recovered early Sunday morning nearly a mile from the camp.
Sheriff Larry Davidson called the scene “one of the hardest we’ve ever had to witness.”
“Our hearts go out to every parent and family affected. These were young, innocent children trying to enjoy their summer. This is every family’s worst nightmare.”
Jelly Roll’s Heartfelt Response
In the wake of the tragedy, Jelly Roll flew directly from Nashville to Texas to be with his extended family. He was seen on Sunday evening attending a candlelight vigil held at a local church, where he embraced grieving relatives and offered to cover funeral expenses for Roger.
He also promised to support other families impacted by the tragedy.
“We’re going to make sure these babies are remembered, and these families are not forgotten,” he said through tears. “Whatever I have, I’ll give.”
In addition to his personal donation, Jelly Roll is working with the American Red Cross and local relief funds to organize a benefit concert in Austin later this month. All proceeds will go toward supporting the victims and rebuilding efforts in Kerr County.
Fans, Friends, and Fellow Artists Send Love
Messages of support have flooded social media from fans and fellow artists. Lainey Wilson, Morgan Wallen, and Luke Combs were among those who posted tributes.
“Praying for you and your family, Jelly. No parent or cousin should ever go through this,” Wilson wrote.
“We got your back, brother. Roger’s memory will live on,” Wallen added.
Jelly Roll has long used his platform to speak about mental health, addiction, and healing. Now, fans say, he’s showing the same kind of strength in grief that drew them to his music in the first place.
A Life Cut Short, A Legacy That Will Live On
Roger DeFord was remembered by his family as a loving, curious boy who loved the outdoors, animals, and country music—especially his cousin’s songs.
“He wanted to be like Jelly,” said Roger’s mother, tearfully. “He would sing along to every lyric, and he had that same kindness in him. He was our sunshine.”
Funeral services will be held on Friday, July 12, at First Baptist Church of Kerrville. The family has asked for privacy but welcomes donations to a newly established Roger DeFord Memorial Fund.
As for Jelly Roll, he ended his public post with a message that echoed the pain of so many families:
“Hold your babies close. Tomorrow isn’t promised. I love you, Roger. Rest easy, little man.”
#RIPRoger #JellyRollFamily #TexasFlood #CampMysticTragedy #GoneTooSoon #PrayForTexas
