A grieving mother is opening up with love and courage after the devastating loss of her three precious daughters.
Whitney Decker gave her first public remarks at a memorial service held at Rocky Reach Park in Wenatchee, Washington, honoring the lives of her daughters—Paityn, 9, Evelyn, 8, and Olivia, 5—who were allegedly murdered by their father during a court-approved visitation.
“They were incredible,” Whitney said through tears to a crowd of thousands who gathered to mourn and remember the young sisters.
Whitney shared how, after her divorce from Travis Decker in 2022, she and her girls made a habit of talking about their feelings each night before bed. “After my divorce, there were a lot of feelings flowing through my house—especially with three small, tiny women,” she recalled.
She went on to explain how those quiet nighttime conversations gave her insight into the hearts of her daughters. “When the world slowed down, it gave me an inside look at their day,” she said. “I believe doing this with them allowed them to come into the world with open hearts and kindness.”
The mother’s words painted a picture of three beautiful lives filled with love and promise—lives cut tragically short.
Travis Decker, a 32-year-old homeless Army veteran, had taken the girls on Friday, May 30, for a scheduled custody visit. When he failed to return them that evening, Whitney contacted the authorities. A few days later, on June 2, the girls were found suffocated with plastic bags on their heads and zip ties on their wrists at Rock Island Campground, not far from Travis’ abandoned truck.
Officials later confirmed that all three sisters died from suffocation. The shocking and heartbreaking case has prompted a nationwide manhunt, as Travis Decker remains missing. Whitney’s attorney, Arianna Cozart, told People that Travis had long struggled with mental health issues, including paranoia and borderline personality disorder. She also said she fears Travis may have taken his own life.
Chelan County Sheriff Michael Morrison warned that some “misguided” individuals might try to help Travis avoid capture. “I mean, he’s accused of murder—not just once, but three times—and he is a danger,” the sheriff said.
Despite the pain, Whitney ended her remarks at the memorial with gratitude for those who’ve supported her during this unimaginable time. “I truly hope that the legacy of the girls’ lives lives on in everyone’s heart forever,” she said. “Thank you for your outpouring of love.”
As the search for Travis continues, this grieving mother clings to the memory of her daughters, three innocent lives that radiated love, light, and kindness.
Heavenly Father, our hearts break for Whitney and her family as they walk through this valley of sorrow. We ask that You surround them with Your presence, bringing peace that passes all understanding. Wrap Whitney in Your love—hold her close when the grief feels unbearable. Bring her comfort in her memories, strength for each day, and hope for the future. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.