As the nation marks a somber Christmas 2025, the wife of missing Florida attorney Brandon Billmaier has shared the poignant last message she received from her husband before he vanished on a fishing trip with his uncle. Deborah Billmaier, newlywed and devastated, revealed the simple text from 33-year-old Brandon on the morning of December 19: “I love you. I will see you tonight, be back home tonight.” Those words, meant as reassurance, now haunt her as the U.S. Coast Guard has suspended its massive search and the FBI continues its investigation into the bizarre disappearance of Billmaier and his uncle, prominent lawyer Randall Spivey, 57.

The couple, who celebrated their first anniversary in Paris just months ago, had built a life filled with travel and adventure. “He lived for fishing, for his family, for me,” Deborah told reporters in an emotional interview. But what was supposed to be a routine day on the water turned into an enduring enigma when their boat was found empty, engine running, 70 miles offshore. No audio message has surfaced publicly, but Deborah’s disclosure of the final text adds a layer of heartbreak to a case already rife with unanswered questions.

The incident has captivated Southwest Florida, with families facing the holidays without closure. What really happened after that loving text? Accident, emergency, or something more?

The Last Communication: A Promise Unfulfilled

On the morning of December 19, 2025, Brandon Billmaier sent his wife a text full of everyday affection and plans for the evening. “I love you. I will see you tonight, be back home tonight,” he wrote, as shared by Deborah in interviews following the suspension of the search.

The newlyweds—married just over a year—had recently returned from romantic trips, visiting over 30 countries together. Deborah described Brandon as her “best friend, my husband and my greatest love,” a man who showed “true, unconditional love” every day.

By evening, with no further contact, alarm set in. Deborah contacted authorities around 9 p.m., launching what became one of the largest searches in regional history.

Recap of the Disappearance: Empty Boat Sparks Alarm

Spivey and Billmaier, both experienced boaters, departed early from Fort Myers on the 42-foot “Unstopp-A-Bull” for bottom fishing. Expected back by afternoon, they never returned.

The boat was located early December 21, drifting upright with the engine running and in gear. Two life jackets were missing, but the EPIRB remained unused onboard. No distress signals were sent, and weather was mild.

A exhaustive search covering over 6,700 square miles involved multiple agencies, volunteers, and aircraft. On December 22 at sundown, the Coast Guard suspended active operations, citing thorough coverage and risks to rescuers.

Deborah, in a Facebook post, expressed heartbreak but respect for the decision: “Brandon and Randy would never want anyone else to put their life in danger.”

Profiles of the Missing Men: Lawyers and Family Men

Randall Spivey founded Spivey Law Firm in Fort Myers, a board-certified civil trial lawyer with decades of experience securing millions for clients in personal injury cases.

Brandon, inspired by his uncle, joined Shiner Law Group in Boca Raton as a trial attorney in 2023. Described as exceptional and caring, he shared a passion for fishing and family.

The families were close, often vacationing together. Deborah noted Brandon’s deep admiration for his uncle, calling Spivey “the most special person” with unmatched integrity.

Shift to Investigation: FBI Steps In

With the search suspended, the case moved to the FBI due to its offshore location and unusual circumstances. Investigators are analyzing GPS data, phone records, and the boat itself.

Deborah speculated on a possible man-overboard scenario: One fell in during a final fishing stop, the other jumped to help, unaware the engine was engaged—leading the unmanned boat to drift away.

No evidence of foul play has emerged, though online theories persist, some linking to Spivey’s legal work. Authorities stress focusing on facts.

Community and Family Response: Holding Onto Hope

Deborah has been vocal on social media, organizing volunteer searches and expressing gratitude for community support. “He loved fishing—that’s all he talked about,” she said, finding solace in knowing he was doing what he loved.

On Christmas Eve, she spoke of hoping for a “miracle,” though reality sets in. The Shiner Law Group mourned Brandon as a “valued member” and friend.

Families urged continued awareness, with tips directed to authorities.

Unanswered Questions Linger This Holiday Season

The final text—”I will see you tonight”—stands as a cruel irony. Why no distress call? Why unused EPIRB? How did both seasoned men vanish from a running boat?

Experts suggest scenarios like medical emergency or fishing accident, but details remain elusive.

As 2025’s Christmas unfolds without answers, Deborah and the families face profound grief. “We had so many dreams and plans,” she shared.

The FBI probe continues, potentially bringing clarity in the new year. For now, the sea holds its secrets.