Suvechha Sarkar
After Crystal Ann McDowell lost both her parents within a span of 6 months, her uncle Jeffrey “Jeff” Walters cared for his beloved niece. Over time, Crystal bonded with her extended family, especially her aunt, Cindy Seratte, and cousin Jade Elizabeth Cherry. However, the lives of her loved ones were turned upside down when Crystal went missing, and her remains were found days later. NBC’s ‘Dateline: Before the Storm’ focuses on the details of the case and how it led investigators to uncover her ex-husband, Steven McDowell, as the killer. It also features interviews with Jade and Cindy recounting the moments they realized Crystal was missing.
Jade Cherry Has Embraced Her Life as a Teacher, Coach, and Loving Mother
Jade Elizabeth Cherry had always been close with her cousin, Crystal Ann McDowell. Hence, when she learned about the murder of Crystal, she was left completely devastated. Before the ordeal rocked her entire world, Jade was completely focused on completing her studies. Eventually, she began her career in May 2021, joining as a School Teacher. As of writing, Jade is working as an English teacher at Robert E. Lee High School. She is associated with the Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District. Jade also teaches an AVID class, through which she prepares her students for college and lays the foundation for their future success.
Moreover, Jade works as a coach for the Varsity cheer team. In March 2026, she reached a professional milestone when she became the Giant Staff Member of the Month. In her personal life, Jade’s world was lit up with joy when she welcomed her twin daughters, Olivia and Emma, in 2017. Since then, they have been the apple of her eyes, and she never misses a chance to make lifelong memories with them. Whether it be dressing up in costumes with her daughters or taking them to Disney World, Jade cherishes every moment she spends with them.
In 2023, Jade’s life felt more complete when she began dating the love of her life. In July 2025, the couple took another step forward in their relationship as they finally got engaged. Despite the good times, Jade can’t help but miss her adorable kitten, who passed away in April 2024. She now finds solace in the presence of her constant companion and pup, Bear. In her free time, Jade loves spending time with her friends and trying out different cuisines at various restaurants.
Jeff Walters is Thriving as a Real Estate Broker With Over Three Decades of Experience
Jeffrey “Jeff” Walters had helped care for and raise his niece, Crystal, when her parents passed away. However, things took a dark turn when it was found that Crystal’s ex-husband, Steven, was responsible for her death. While speaking on the matter, Jeff expressed, “I hope he never makes it out of there, you know? … He deserves whatever he gets.” Before the horrific incident changed the lives of him and his family members, he was solely focused on creating a unique path for himself as a Realtor. Jeff first joined as a Commercial Real Estate Broker and Property Management Specialist at JLW Property Management. Eventually, he also became a Real Estate Broker at Virginia Malone Realty. In both positions, Jeff focuses on managing properties and facilitating seamless transactions.
Over the years, Jeff has had the opportunity to serve as a judge in several beauty pageants. Most recently, in March 2026, he served as a judge at the Junior Miss Port Neches pageant. Jeff is quite active in advocating for property rights in his state and vocal about his political opinions. When Jeff is not busy with his work, he maintains a strong bond with his aunt, Jenny. She is the person who taught him everything about the real estate business. Jeff loves spending time with her over meals and listening to her advice, who has 65 years of experience as a broker. He also has a close bond with his nephews and nieces and always cheers them on at every step of their journey. Another big part of his heart is dedicated to his kittens, including Boyrin. From time to time, Jeff loves visiting cafes and trying different delicacies.
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Cindy Seratte is Leading a Happy Life Surrounded by Her Beloved Family
Cindy Beck Seratte was working at her salon when she received a call from her son, who told her that Crystal was missing. Eventually, when Cindy learned that Crystal had been killed, she received the task of giving the news to Crystal’s 8-year-old son, Madden Alexander McDowell, and 5-year-old daughter, Maui Lorelei McDowell. Cindy recalled the time when she told Madden and Maui about their mother’s death, stating, “We found your mommy, and she’s in heaven … and your daddy’s in jail for taking your mother’s life.” Cindy revealed that upon hearing the news, Madden had hugged her sister and said, “I love you, Maui. I’ll always take care of you.” She also revealed that, as of writing, Madden and Maui are being raised outside Texas by a family friend, who was in the process of getting legal custody of them in August 2020.
Beyond the ordeal, Cindy started her journey by attending Hallsville High School and Anahuac High School. She finally began her professional trajectory in August 2011, when she joined Meraki Salon & Boutique as a Beautician. Back at home, Cindy devotes herself completely to her husband and soulmate, Terry Seratte. Together, they welcomed their daughters, Terran Seratte and Christian Gonzalez, and their son, Clenon Weaver, into their lives. Cindy also embraced Terry’s daughter, Andrea Smith McGarity, as her own. Cindy never misses an opportunity to express her affection for her children and her husband.
In March 2026, Cindy wrote a heartfelt message for Terry, stating, “I may not always show enough gratitude for the BIG or little things you do for our home/belongings/ me, or the entire family ……… BUT … just know I do notice & appreciate you making sure I/we / or ALL are taking (GREAT) care of the BEST way you know how through hard work.” Together, the couple enjoys snowy days and goes on romantic dates. Furthermore, Cindy always finds joy in the presence of her grandchildren. Yet, despite the little joys of life, Cindy continues to carry the grief of losing her beloved niece within her heart to this day.
