South Montgomery County Community Mourns Loss of Reese Manchaca

Updated: Jul 9

All five Constable Precincts bring beloved Caney Creek HS Class of 2022 graduate home from Kerrville

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Conroe, Texas – A solemn motorcade made its way through Montgomery County on Wednesday morning as law enforcement officers and community members honored Claire Reese Manchaca’s return. The 21-year-old Caney Creek High School graduate was escorted from Kerrville by deputies from all five Montgomery County constable precincts following her tragic death in the Texas Hill Country floods over the Fourth of July weekend.

Manchaca, known to friends and family as Reese, had been visiting the Hill Country with longtime friends when the cabin they were staying in was swept away by rising floodwaters. Her body was recovered on Monday. She was one of three victims confirmed deceased, with a fourth still missing.

The coordinated police escort was organized by Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough’s office, providing a visible show of support as Reese’s body was returned to Conroe to be laid to rest.

Family, Friends, and Community Pay Tribute

Reese graduated from Caney Creek High School in 2022, where she was a member of the National Honor Society and stood out for her vibrant personality. Teachers and friends recalled her as someone who “lit up every room” and embraced her individuality with confidence and kindness.

“She was not afraid to go on her own path,” said Tracy Underwood, a Caney Creek teacher and family friend. “She wore fun outfits, won two senior superlatives, and was loved by a lot of people.”

To honor Reese’s life and support her family, friends have launched a “Forever Reese” T-shirt fundraiser. The shirts, featuring angel wings, a halo, and earth-tone colors, were designed in her memory. All proceeds go directly to the Manchaca family. Over 200 shirts were sold within the first 24 hours, and the goal is to raise $10,000 by selling 500.

Link: https://www.mygradaccount.com/products/forever-reese-t-shirt

First Responders Line the Streets

As the convoy moved through town, residents stood along the roadside, hands on hearts. Officers on motorcycles led the procession, followed by vehicles bearing Reese’s body and family members. Two pickup trucks, driven by close family friends, completed the tribute caravan.

Judge Keough expressed his gratitude for the constables’ involvement. “I want to thank all of our constables for answering the call and providing some comfort to the family during this difficult time,” he said. “Please continue to keep the family and friends of Reese in your thoughts and prayers.”

In the face of overwhelming loss, the Manchaca family has found themselves embraced by a caring community. The symbols of support—from T-shirts to roadside tributes—reflect a unified message: Reese will not be forgotten.