News Summary

The Kerrville community is in mourning after floods took the lives of soccer coach Reece Zunker and his wife Paula, leaving their two children missing. Rescuers continue the search amid a tragic backdrop of loss, as the couple’s dedication to education and community support is remembered fondly. The town rallies around the grieving family, highlighting the importance of unity during difficult times.

Kerr County Floods: A Heartbreaking Loss for a Beloved Family

The peaceful city of Kerrville is reeling from the tragic events that unfolded during the recent floods. These devastating floods have claimed the lives of Reece Zunker, a dedicated boys soccer coach at Tivy High School, and his beloved wife, Paula. The couple’s two young children, 3-year-old Holland and 7-year-old Lyle, remain missing as rescue teams continue their search efforts.

A Community in Mourning

The news broke via Kerrville Independent School District’s Facebook page, and it quickly spread throughout the tight-knit community that loved the Zunkers. Reece was more than just a coach; he was a passionate educator who always put his students first. He started his teaching career with Kerrville ISD in August 2012 and was honored as the district’s Secondary Teacher of the Year in 2024, solidifying his reputation as an outstanding mentor.

A Legacy of Coaching

Reece discovered his love for coaching during his junior year in college. He volunteered with Uvalde High School’s football team, which sparked a passion that would carry him through the years. Under his leadership, the Tivy High School boys soccer team made remarkable strides, showing immense growth and dedication. The players have expressed their heartbreak over losing someone who truly believed in them and worked tirelessly to rebuild the soccer program.

Paula’s Impact

Paula, who also worked as a teacher at Tivy, shared her husband’s commitment to education and made a significant impact on her students’ lives. Together, Reece and Paula were known as influential figures in the community, always offering support and encouragement to those around them. Their commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as Reece was also involved in remodeling homes in the area, enhancing not just buildings but the community’s spirit.

The Scale of the Tragedy

The Kerr County floods have been particularly devastating; reports indicate that at least 43 people have lost their lives in this calamity. This reminder of nature’s power has brought the residents of Kerrville together in a show of solidarity. Many community members are coming forward to pay tribute to the Zunkers while keeping their family in their thoughts and prayers.

Community Support

A heartfelt outpouring of love and support has poured from the community, with individuals and organizations rallying to offer help. The Tivy soccer team took to Instagram, sharing their sorrow while honoring Coach Zunker’s lasting legacy and impact. They reminded everyone of his favorite mantra, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” a phrase borrowed from the Liverpool FC team he admired and one that will continue to resonate with the players in the future.

Looking Ahead

As the community grapples with this loss, the search for Holland and Lyle continues. Rescuers are working tirelessly, but hope is beginning to wane as each day passes. The Zunkers’ friends, family, and students remember them fondly, cherishing the invaluable lessons they imparted and the love they shared. The heartache felt by many in Kerrville serves as a reminder of the importance of community and support during life’s most challenging moments.

In times like these, it’s crucial for everyone to embrace one another and extend compassion towards those in need. The Zunker family’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those they touched, reminding us all that even in our darkest times, we are not alone.

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