After nearly a quarter-century of uncertainty, Barbara Byrd has received the astonishing news that her cousin, Michele Hundley Smith, who went missing in December 2001, is alive. The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office confirmed her well-being, although at her request, her specific location will remain undisclosed.
“I kind of want to go outside and scream, ‘she’s alive, she’s alive,’” Byrd expressed, capturing the emotional whirlwind of relief that came with this long-awaited confirmation. Initially, Michele was a 38-year-old mother when she disappeared while leaving her Eden home for Christmas shopping. Over the years, her case garnered regional and national interest, with Byrd and the family tirelessly seeking answers and keeping Michele’s name in public awareness. Despite many efforts, including interviews and features on true crime platforms, the key question of what happened on that fateful day in December remained unanswered.
Byrd reflected on the impact of the uncertainty on her family’s life, saying, “For years, we didn’t know if we were grieving or waiting.” The disappearance had left a profound void, with Byrd and her family holding onto hope even during the most challenging times. She shared her desire to understand what led Michele to leave, expressing, “My biggest question is to her … what happened all those years ago in December? What made you leave? What happened?”
While the news that Michele is safe brought immense comfort, Byrd recognized that the request for privacy adds a bittersweet layer to the situation. “I understand and respect that she doesn’t want any of us to contact her,” Byrd stated, adding that she chooses gratitude over anger. “The biggest answer I had today was she was alive. Nothing else matters right at this moment.”
Byrd insisted that she always believed her cousin was alive, saying, “I never thought Michele was dead. I knew she was alive. It’s just a feeling that I had my whole life.” Tragically, Michele’s youngest brother had previously asked Byrd to promise they would find her, a wish that now resonates with poignant significance after his passing. “He asked me to promise that we would find her,” Byrd recalled. “I’m going to say this out loud, she’s OK, Brian.”
While Byrd respects Michele’s need for privacy, she expressed hope that one day Michele may feel ready to reach out, particularly to her brothers and daughters. “I would love to hear you say I’m OK, but when I’m ready, I’ll talk to you,” Byrd shared.
Michele’s daughter, Amanda, also expressed her feelings about the unexpected revelation, indicating she is still processing the news. She plans to release a statement soon and extended her gratitude to those who supported the family throughout the years.
Though the mystery surrounding Michele’s disappearance remains unresolved, the validation that she is alive brings a glimmer of hope to a situation that has long been shrouded in darkness. This newfound clarity may serve as a catalyst for healing as the family continues to hold onto the love and connection that has endured despite decades of uncertainty.