BELLVILLE, Texas – The small town of Bellville came together to honor the life of 8-year-old Virginia Hollis, who tragically died in the recent Hill Country floods.
Walking behind the hearse, Virginia’s grandfather led her horse, Salt Valley, through the town. Her parents held hands, taking slow, tearful steps as the entire community showed up to remember the sweet young girl.
“I think we’re a town that really loves deeply, and we support this family,” said Leah Cessna, a local resident.
The crowd’s silence was filled with emotion as dozens of first responders drove through downtown to honor Virginia.
“I think what meant the most to me is to see that there’s still goodness in the world, and to see the whole state is coming together. That just speaks volumes,” said Audrau Winkelmann.
Austin County Judge Tim Lapham added, “We lean on each other, we support each other. And it’s a touching thing, it’s heartwarming.”
Hundreds of first responders stopped along the route from San Antonio to Bellville to pay tribute as they brought Virginia home.
Virginia was in the Twins 2 Cabin when the devastating floods swept through Camp Mystic. Loved ones describe her as brave, curious, and full of life—a girl who loved the color pink and enjoyed fishing.
Green bows, representing Camp Mystic, are scattered throughout Belleville, wrapped around poles, trees, and businesses. Stuffed bears and flowers have been left at a growing memorial for Virginia.
“I think that it’s times like this that our faith gets us through because life is hard enough without faith, and when something like this happens, meaning only comes through our faith,” said Leah Cessna.
Virginia’s cowgirl hat and little pink boots now hang backwards in the stirrups of her saddle—a western tradition symbolizing the end of a young rider’s life. It’s a life the town of Bellville will never forget.
Virginia’s family has deep roots in the community and is asking for prayers as they navigate this unimaginable loss.