Candles will be lit at a vigil for Michelle "Brittany" Fennell from 1-5 p.m. March 25 in Eldon, symbolizing how family members hope their loved one's light will return to the loving warmth of her family.
Michelle Fennell, 46, of Rolla, was last seen around noon Nov. 11 in Miller County and has been considered endangered since her disappearance. Fennell's children reported seeing her leave an Eldon area location in a truck. She did not have her cellphone with her when she went missing, and her bank account has remained inactive.
Her brother, John Fennell, said there has been very little progress in the case.
The public candlelight vigil will be in the Eldon Community Center at 309 E. 2nd St. The hall will be decorated in pink and purple, two of Michelle Fennell's favorite colors.
Those who attend will be provided complementary hot dogs, nachos, refreshments and deserts. Donations will be accepted.
The nonprofit Missouri Missing will host the event with members of Fennell's family. Executive Director Marianne Asher-Chapman said Eldon Mayor Larry Henderson was kind enough to provide use of the community center free of charge. Asher-Chapman said the vigil will be a good chance for community-building, where area residents can help bring one of their own home by offering prayers for her return and showing support for the family.
John Fennell said his sister was a loving and caring person who would not have willingly left her family.
"She's never just taken off and not let us know where she is," he said. "It's like she just disappeared. We haven't heard anything since it happened, and it feels like nothing is moving forward. We would just really appreciate any information and support we can get to bring her home."
Michelle Fennell is a 5-foot-3 white woman weighing about 110 pounds with a thin build, brown hair and brown eyes. She has a tattoo on her right thigh of a red and black vampire bite and a scar on her left hand.
Those with potentially related information are asked to contact the Miller County Sheriff's Department at 573-369-2341.