The Fort Myers community and the families of missing fishermen Brandon Billmaier and his uncle Randy Spivey are holding onto hope as the search for the pair continues. Brandon’s wife, Deborah Billmaier, took to Instagram to share her heartfelt gratitude for the efforts of local heroes and volunteers, while also urging the public to join in the ongoing search.

“Thank you to all the local heroes who are working to bring my husband Brandon and uncle Randy home. We cannot thank you enough, and are eternally grateful,” she wrote. “They have yet not been found, but we are staying positive and know they will come home. Please continue to pray for us.” Her words resonated deeply, reflecting a mixture of hope, despair, and unwavering faith in the rescue efforts.

The missing men, Brandon Billmaier, 33, and his uncle Randy Spivey, 57, vanished on Friday, December 19, while on a fishing trip off the coast of Fort Myers, Florida. Their 42-foot Freeman boat was later found adrift approximately 70 miles off the coast, but neither man was aboard. Following the discovery, the U.S. Coast Guard, along with local authorities and volunteers, launched a massive search covering thousands of square miles in the Gulf of Mexico. Despite the immense efforts, the men remain missing.

In her post, Deborah provided critical details about the next stage of the search and made an urgent plea for vessels to join. “Tomorrow, Monday, December 22, we are asking for vessels capable of a 225-mile range to assist in a major offshore search,” she wrote. Volunteers are instructed to expect updated grid coordinates by 8:00 AM, which will be immediately distributed via text to all participating vessels. The search area is expected to cover approximately 70 miles west of Naples, Florida, with final grids assigned once updated information is received.

Deborah also provided clear instructions for volunteers wishing to assist, including providing vessel details, captain and first mate contact information, and vessel range. “On behalf of our family, thank you for your continued support, willingness to help, and prayers. Your assistance truly matters,” she concluded.

The post not only served as a logistical guide for the search but also highlighted the emotional toll the incident has taken on the families. Friends and loved ones have rallied around Deborah, offering support, prayers, and hope as the search continues. The situation remains dire, but the community’s response demonstrates resilience and compassion in the face of uncertainty.

As the hours pass and the search expands offshore, all eyes remain on the Gulf, with hope that Brandon and Randy will be found safe. The plea from Deborah Billmaier stands as a testament to a family’s love, the bravery of volunteers, and the unyielding human spirit in the face of tragedy.