In the early hours of July 4, 2025, as most Americans were preparing for a day of fireworks and celebration, Jake Ramsey awoke to something unimaginable: a voicemail from his father, Jeff Ramsey—one that would change his life forever. “It’s just my dad telling us he loves us… and then almost whispering, ‘I think this is it,’” Jake told ABC News Live, his voice cracking under the weight of grief.
Jeff Ramsey, 61, and his wife Tanya Ramsey, 46, were caught in the deadly floods that swept through Kerrville, Texas, after an unprecedented storm overwhelmed the Guadalupe River. As water surged into their camper, Jeff—ever the protector—used his final moments not to panic, but to call and warn his family. It was both a goodbye and a selfless act of heroism.
“He was always looking out for his family first,” Jake said. “He loved this country, he loved our community, and he loved us more than anything. I couldn’t have asked for a better dad.” In those harrowing last minutes, Jeff’s priority remained saving lives. His warning call to Tanya’s brother and mother, who were staying just 100 yards away, gave them enough time to flee to safety.
Though Tanya’s brother tried desperately to reach the couple, he couldn’t find them. What he could rescue, however, was Chloe—the Ramseys’ beloved puppy. “To know she was still alive, and she’s coming back home—it means the world,” Jake said, holding back tears. “She’s such a big part of my dad and Tanya’s heart.”
Jeff and Tanya Ramsey are now among the 95 confirmed deaths in Kerr County from the floods, including 36 children. At least 161 people remain missing as search efforts continue. The scene left behind is one of shattered communities and haunting silence—bridges torn away, homes gutted, lives changed in an instant. But the memory of people like Jeff Ramsey has become a symbol of love in the face of chaos.
As investigations continue into emergency response failures and delayed warnings, Jake isn’t shy about calling for accountability. “I know more could’ve been done to prevent this tragedy,” he said. “And it just sucks to see political division over the whole thing.” Yet, he remains hopeful. “I do have confidence, especially with today’s administration, that we’re going to move forward the right way.”
In a week filled with loss and questions, Jeff Ramsey’s final act—his farewell message, his life-saving call, his quiet bravery—resonates far beyond Kerrville. It reminds us that even in our darkest hour, the human heart will still reach out for the ones it loves.
And sometimes, a whisper—“I think this is it”—is louder than any storm.
