Claire Reese Manchaca, a 21-year-old Conroe native and Caney Creek High School graduate, was among the victims of the devastating Fourth of July flooding in the Texas Hill Country. On Wednesday, law enforcement led an emotional procession to bring her body home to Conroe, and the grieving community embraced her.
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The Conroe community came together Wednesday to honor the life of Claire Reese Manchaca, a 21-year-old Caney Creek High School graduate who tragically lost her life in the catastrophic flooding that hit Texas Hill Country over the Fourth of July weekend.
Manchaca, who graduated in 2022 and was known for her vibrant personality and joyful spirit, had been visiting the area with friends when the floodwaters surged. Following an extensive search, her body was recovered on Monday. To bring her home, all five Montgomery County constable precincts sent deputies to Kerrville to escort her body back to Conroe in a solemn motorcade.
“As soon as I heard, I called the constables and they all said, ‘We’re in,’” said Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough. “With all the people, the escort, the motorcycles, the two trucks—it just demonstrates the heart of Montgomery County.”
Residents and first responders lined the streets to honor her return, some holding American flags, while others simply placed their hands over their hearts. The moment was somber, yet filled with love.
“She just lit up every room she walked into,” said JLyn Jackson, a Caney Creek teacher and close friend of the family. Reese's unapologetically herself presence was always evident.
“She wore bright, fun outfits. She was funny. She won two senior superlatives,” said Tracy Underwood, another teacher and family friend. “She was just so loved.”
The loss has deeply shaken the Conroe ISD community. Jackson and Underwood, devastated by the news, launched a tribute initiative to support the grieving family. The “Forever Reese” tribute shirt—featuring angel wings, a halo, and her favorite colors—has seen overwhelming support. More than 200 shirts were sold in less than 24 hours, to sell 500 and raise $10,000 to help the Manchaca family.
“This tragedy touched so many hearts,” Underwood said. “We hope every person who wears that shirt feels a little of Reese’s energy, her kindness, her fire.”
As Conroe mourns a young life taken far too soon, the community’s outpouring of love stands as a powerful testament to Reese Manchaca’s unforgettable spirit.
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