Detectives have come to the house this afternoon to tell us the news we dreaded - they found a body believed to be Kelsey. No confirmation yet.
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KELSEY SMITH, 18, of Overland Park (Kansas City area) was kidnapped and murdered on Saturday, June 2, 2007. Her family and friends are grieving. Please pray for them.
121 comments:
Well, here we go again. I'm beyond being fed up, sick, sad, shocked, angry, worried for my own loved ones..way beyond all that. Here we have another female abducted and murdered. What's the answer? I know what I'd do if it were my daughter, wife, sister, or mother. It's just so very very sad...
My husband and I wanted to let the Smith Family know that our prayers are with you. I pray that Kelsey is returned safely to you soon!
Mr. and Mrs. Vargas, Yonkers, New York
I'm just stunned!! Please God don't let me ever go through what the Smith's are facing. I have a 14 and 19 year old girls and we just can't protect them enough. I'm so sorry!! Sherri
Hi I'm from Alabama and my family and I want the Smith family to know that we are sorry for their loss and that our prayers are with you. Love you all and God bless you.
I did not know Kelsy or the family, but this story caught my attention last night and I felt compelled to follow it. It breaks my heart that she was found dead today, I can only hope they somehow identify the body as not hers, although news stories do not make that a likely possibility.
I am just so very sorry for the family. Please, if you know information about this case and you are trying to protect someone, come forward! This is a horrible tragedy. I pray for everyone involved--mostly Kelsy, and that in her last moments, she did not suffer and was at peace as she was welcomed home into heaven.
I just want you to know how much this story has touched me and that I've been in prayer for you all ever since finding out about this today. I'm still praying that your girl will be found alive, but, if not, that you will all grow closer to God and be able to have peace. With love, a sister in Christ.
I'm so very, very sorry. Lindsey, Canada.
Our prayers are with you.
Why? Why would someone do this to such a beautiful, beautiful young lady. She had nothing but a wonderful LONG life ahead of her. I am so very very sorry to the Smith family. I have no children and I'm still very young, but I have many nephews. Things like this make me live in fear of having my own children. What has happened to this world? I know there is nothing that any one can do or say to take the pain away from the Smith family. I pray who ever did this to your beautiful daughter rots in hell.
My heart aches, is beyond words what to say to you in this time. But, PLEASE know how much the nation is behind you and your family. I saw you on TV this morning and admire you all. I am so sorry.
Beyond words, please pull together as a family. Your 1/7 would want you to be.
Whether or not this turns out to be your lovely daughter, my prayers are with you. I cannot imagine being in your position, and I pray that God grants you and your family the strength to deal with this. I simply cannot imagine. As a parent, since the moment our child is born, we go through life worrying, worrying and worrying. And what is happening to you is our biggest nightmare.
I pray that the person found is NOT your daughter, though I know that it is SOMEBODY'S daughter.
My prayers are with you.
My heart goes out to the Smith family. Sometimes things happens in our lives that we don't understand, but we have to always remember to never lose the faith. I pray that justice is served for whoever did this terrible thing. U will remain in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless your family, stay strong :-)
I am deeply sorry for the loss of your daughter. Please know that God has a reason for allowing this to occur. Lean not on your own understanding, but just trust Him to reveal to you His mercy and grace. You will always be in my heart and my prayers.
Natalie from Mississippi
I am shocked and angry. How in the world can we protect our children? You almost can't let them go to the store alone in fear that someone will harm them. Why is this? I am from MO - this is right in our backyard.
I am so sorry for your loss.
As the father of a soon-to-graduate beautiful 17 year old daughter, my heart is breaking for your family. I pray that in spite of the most recent news that Kelsey will still be found alive and well. The tragedy is that some poor family has lost a beloved, beautiful daughter and we must mourn with them. I wish I knew how to protect our children without smothering them, but I feel powerless to do that without robbing them of a full life. I grieve with all of you.
Larry T. - Washington State
My prayers go to the Smith Family
You all will need to be there for each other
Sylvia Campos
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Oh I am so very sad for you. My son is 18 and is just graduating from high school too. I cannot imagine how heartbreaking it is to give birth, give your heart to this child, watch her take her first steps, her first day of school, making friends, school activities ... your hopes and dreams: college, career, happy marriage, children of her own. I saw you on TV, you are good parents. There is nothing you could have done differently. Don't blame yourselves.
My heart breaks in sorrow for your loss. Here is a big hug - if this is Kelsey, then she is in a better place. God is smiling at her in heaven and she wants you to be strong and someday smile and be happy again. So sorry. Please remember her wonderful smile and all the fun you had as a family.
I pray that the Lord will wrap His loving arms around you at this horrible time and give you the strength to make it from one day to the next. Kelsey was a beautiful girl here and she can only be more beautiful as an angel. Please know that the Kessinger family in Illinois is praying for your family and praying that justice will be served.
To the Smith family:
My God be with you and your family at this time in your life. May His prayers rain down on you and comfort you till the sadness has lessened.
II Corinthians 1:3-5
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort...
Nicole Abbott
Clinton, Iowa
All young girls out there should carry some kind of mase. When I was younger and worked in a dangerous neighborhood, I used to carry a mase and a small Nunchuck in my purse. I also had a small knife in my car after being stalked by a convicted sexual predictor. It is against the law to carry weapons, but it probably can prevents these tragics happen. I am really sadden by this. My prayer goes out to the smith's family.
I have been following my local news station here in Ca and have been praying for the best possible outcome. My prayers go out to the family and friends. I will continue to pray for justice, even though there really is nothing that can be done to bring her back.
This is just horrible - I was so hoping she would come home to her loved ones without harm.
There are SO many angry, mean, men out there that something MUST be done before another family goes thru what the Smith's are going thru at this moment.
I feel that every single person must give a DNA sample when obtaining their driver's license, then and only then will a sick human being (animal) think twice about murdering someone or even raping!! Let's get legislation on this idea. The only people with objection to this would be criminals.
i am so very sorry for your loss. There is no ryme or reason for such a horrible thing. My prayers are with you...
I feel terribly bad for her living only until 18 and now dead! Kelsey I know your up in a better place now!
I'm so sorry to here about Kelsey.
Our prayers are with you. We have been watching this on the news since it all started. I can't imagine what you have been going through. God Bless the Smith Family
Laurie Virginia Beach Virginia.
I am just stunned! And I feel so sad for the family of this very lovely girl...People don't really know the hurt you go though. It hurt to the core of your soul when you lose someone.
I pray for your family, in your time of need...this was senseless and I too am very fed up with people doing this to young women and men...in the prime of their young lives...Just know you raise a lovely young lady...and her spirit is now with God
I am really sorry you all have to go though this.
Ms Bev (OKC) Brewer
Dear Smith Family,
My heart broke when I saw the news report that Kelsey's body had been found. As the mother of three (two girls 14 and 18) I can't begin to imagine your grief, but I want you to know that I, along with thousands of other parents, share your grief. I'm in tears as I type this and while I want to write something profound to ease your pain, I realize there are no words...only the hope that God will see you through this difficult time. We can't always understand why something like this has to happen, but I am certain that your beautiful girl is sitting at the right hand of Jesus and you will see her again one day. May God Bless your entire family and Kelsey's friends in the coming days.
My heart is broken to hear that your beautiful daughter Kelsey's body was found today. I am sure that the Angels of God were holding her tightly in their arms till the end. May God give you the peace that surpasses understanding. You're family is in my thoughts and prayers.
i AM SO VERY SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOUR DAUGHTER. I HONESTLY CAN SAY THAT I KNOW HOW YOUR FAMILY FEELS AS I TOO HAVE A DAUGHTER FROM SHAWNEE KS MISSING NOW FOR OVER 9 YRS ONLY WE HAVE NOT FOUND HER BODY. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AND FOR GOD TO GIVE YOU STRENGTH AS HE AS DONE FOR ME. I PLACED UP POSTERS FOR YOU AND I WISH THERE WAS MORE I COULD DO FOR YOU NOW. IM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS
Dear Smith Family,
I am Truely sorry for your loss I am grieving with you because I cant imagion loosing someone to a murder. I hope who did this will pay. You are #1 in my parayers and God Bless You and Kelsey. She would be proud of how much you searched for her!
my prayers go out to the smith family..may god be with you.stay strong
So sorry for the loss of your precious, beautiful daughter. It is such a horrible thing to go through. May God hold you up with His everlasting arms.
John 3:16
... i feel such an immense sense of loss, and i never even knew her... i cannot begin to expess how my heart bleeds for you. i am so sorry, and i pray for the Lord Jesus to encircle you and to hold you close to His heart as u tred thru deep waters. Lyn- MB,Canada
My family would like to deeply express our sympathy and let you know that if you were to ever need anyone please feel free to call on us. I do pray for swift justice for your peace of mind. Having 4 boys I'm not sure how I would act if someone harmed them, I am sure that waiting this out has got to be the hardest thing you will ever do.Our offer is open, anytime, anyplace..remember this is a time when you will need as many supporters as you can have.I pray for your daughters peace as well as your own.
Debbie Ponton, South Carolina
dpontonscresales@bellsouth.net
I am so very sorry for your loss. I can't imagine what you have been going through.
My heart goes out to Kelsey Smith's family, no one should ever have to endure such pain. This is the first i've learned of this precious life taken from those who loved her. Kelsey will remain forever with you in your heart, mind and souls. To her dear family may God protect your tender hearts, my prayers are with you and for you as you go through this difficult time.
To The Smith Family:
I am so very sorry for what happened to Kelsey. My heart and prayers from my family to your's. God will take good care of her.
From: Bob and Debbie
My sorrows run deep for the tragic loss of Kelsey. Keep faith in God. My payers and thoughts are with the Smith family.
I am so sorry for your loss. This world is not safe anymore. I will pray for everyone that knew her. She really looked like a sweet girl. I just can't believe some people can do this to others. It just terrifies me.
Dwayne
Long Island, NY. I'm truly sorry for your loss. Things like this should never happen.I have a 12 year old daughter to watch out for.
After reading this website I didn't know there were so many careing people in this world.
My prayers are with you....forever
i'm truly sorry for your loss. my heart breaks for you and your family.
unfortunate as this is, maybe it will help our loved ones remember to be extra aware of whats going on around them. Everyday life should not have come to this, where our very safety is in jeopardy during the little things in life...
Kelsey will never be forgotten. She will forever be in our hearts and minds.
We hope for strength and continued support for Kelsey's family and friends in the coming months and years.
Ashley and Matthew
Overland Park, KS
I am so very sad. She just graduated from high school and had her whole life ahead of her. I just don't understand why people cannot walk around freely like the good old days. I have two stepdaughters 18 and 21 and this really saddens me that something like this could happen from just leaving a shopping center. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kathy from Arizona
I don't understand what would provoke someone to do this. As a young woman, I feel that I must look over both shoulders and continually be afraid that someone is wanting to hurt me.
It sickens me to see how our world has turned into such an unsafe place. Things have definitely changed since I was a kid.
My heart aches for the family and friends of Kelsey. She was beautiful. What a wonderful she seemed to leave and what a wonderful life she was pursuing. As she has touched so many lives, I know she would have touched many more not only of human beings but furry friends as well.
God bless.
Sarah Welty, KCMO
My heart goes out to the family. Psalm 23 - will definitely comfort you in your time of need. It's so sad that her life was taken so young. With GOD all things are possible.
Sympathy coming to you from Pennsylvania. I have a younger sister too. I know how I'd be feeling right now if this was her. Some people have posted some really stupid things here meaning well I'm sure, but I hope you can look beyond their best intentions and feel the real, pure, human, love that is surrounding your family tonight from all across the country. Maybe even the world. Recently I lost two of the greatest loves of my life. At first I had a lot of doubts about my faith and the hereafter(a.k.a. Heaven)for our loved ones, but trust me when I tell you GOD gently guided me through it all, so much so that when I needed answers they were provided to me in amazing ways. I believe he was and is with your family for comfort and he was also with Kelsey for her comfort too. Trust too that GOD hated what happen to her too!
My prayers go out to the family. I pray that the news is not true and Kelsey is returned safe and sound. Our love and prayers go out to the ones serching for her. Please trust in God and all will be well.
i can't believe some one would be cruel enough to kill some one i dont see how they could do it she didnt even get to have fun b/c they killed her after she grauduated i fell sorry for her family and every one who knew her she was very beautiful
I am so sorry for your loss. I pray that the Holy Spirit fills you with strength and peace to get through this terrible time.
Sad Mother in GA
I live in Australia and became aware of Kelsey's story whilst awake with my own young daughter at 3am this morning. At that stage Kelsey was still reported as missing. I came into work this morning and immediately did a google search to see if there was any news. I was devastated to read that they had found her body.
I may be a long way away, but today my thoughts are with her family and friends.
Lindaxx
God is indeed your Refuge and Strength during this terrible time. My prayers and heart are with you.
As someone who lives less than a mile away from Oak Park Mall (and that Target), I found myself combing my neighborhood and streets desperately looking for a sign - or some clue - that would bring her home. I put Kelsey's picture on my cell phone as the wallpaper image and the Overland Park PD on speed dial number 1. I drove around with posters on my car, put signs in my yard, and prayed without pause.
I am so close ...why could I have not seen something or done something? I can't imagine what the Smith family is going through right now, I only wish peace to come for them soon. I am so, so sorry for your loss.
The worst heartache is that of losing a child. I lost my nephew in a tragic car accident in Leon, KS May 23. I drove in from Ohio for the funeral thanking God that it wasn't my daughter, who is going to college in ElDorado, KS. My heart goes out to your family. And although God teaches us to forgive, I hope they find whoever did this and do to them as they have done to your precious baby girl. My prayers are with you.
We have been following this closely, SO hoping that it wouldn't turn out this way. But...life is too often disappointing anymore. God bless the Smith family and her boyfriend that I know is going through alot of turmoil at this time. I am always saddened to know that there is someone out there that can do this to one of our own. I don't know what to think about life in general anymore. I really am bothered by this thing lately that we call 'life and living'. All I know is this young, beautiful girl that just graduated should still be here to go on to be that veterinarian and share many memories with her family in the years to come. But there was evil lurking whose mission was to take that all away. For that, I truly share in the families' grief. It is an ending we hear about all too often. Our prayers are with you and your lovely daughter.
Natalie from Missisipi,how dare you? God did not mean for Kelsey to be murdered. Just as he does not mean for the 6 million women a year who are murdered at the hands of men. These men are the devil and we know who they are even before they murder. They do other evil things first, it is always rape and give society every indication they are devils but we do not stop the rapists. Every rapist should be in prison for the rest of their lives so they will not murder women. I'm sorry to the Smith family. Kelsey was beautiful and innocent.
It is society who is to blame. We do nothing to stop this!!!
My wife and I want to extend our condolences to the Smith Family. Your daughter looked like a bright light in this world who was extinguished too soon. Our hopes, prayers and strength are with you and your angel.
Me and my husband wanted to let the smith family know how sorry we are...I could not even imagine if something like that happened to one of my daughters. I have an 11 and 17 yr. old, and they don't understand why I am so worried about them going off by their self. It is because of these young kids being abducted and murdered. Nobody should have to face anything like this, it is just sick that someone could ever take the life of someone else. Again, I am so, so sorry for the smith's lost and my prayers are with you.
Your family is in my prayers.
I am so sick of this happening to our childeren, Please lets all Rally to bring back PUBLIC HANGINGS YES HANGINGS, PRISON IS TO GOOD FOR THESE FREAKS THAT HURT KIDS, THE SYSTEM IS NOT WORKING!! I am still a young woman who belives we need to stop these FREAKS DEAD in there tracks, oh I know this will make some people upset,but if it was your child what would you do? lets save our kids.. I am so sorry for your loss Mr & Mrs Smith you will be in my Prayers. God Bless You
Debbie B
My deepest sympathies, I lost my brother a month ago, so I know what your going threw, a sorrow so deep that at times you cannot breath....
Truly drowning in pain and sorrow.... My little girl tells me to have faith!
Stay Strong, God is with you...
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted
The beatitudes
I'm sure Kelsey would want you to know this: God Bless you all !
When tomorrow starts without me,
And I'm not there to see;
If the sun should rise and find your eyes
All filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn't cry
The way you did today,
While thinking of the many things,
We didn't get to say.
I know how much you love me,
As much as I love you,
And each time that you think of me,
I know you'll miss me too;
But when tomorrow starts without me,
Please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name,
And took me by the hand,
And said my place was ready,
In heaven far above,
And that I'd have to leave behind
All those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away,
A tear fell from my eye,
For all my life, I'd always thought,
I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for,
So much yet to do,
It seemed almost impossible,
That I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays,
The good ones and the bad,
I thought of all the love we shared,
And all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday,
Just even for awhile,
I'd say goodbye and kiss you
And maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realized,
That this could never be,
For emptiness and memories,
Would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things,
I might miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you, and when I did,
My heart was filled with sorrow.
But when I walked through heaven's gates,
I felt so much at home.
When God looked down and smiled at me,
From His great golden throne,
He said "This is eternity,
And all I've promised you."
Today for life on earth is past,
But here it starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow,
But today will always last,
And since each day's the same day
There's no longing for the past.
But you have been so faithful,
So trusting and so true.
Thought there were times you did some things,
You knew you shouldn't do.
But you have been forgiven
And now at last you're free.
So won't you take my hand
And share my life with me?
So when tomorrow starts without me,
Don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me,
I'm right here, in your heart.
It's just a bit past 1 A.M. and I am awake thinking about your daughter and your family. While I struggle to find the words to say, please know that so many people in the KCMO area and around the world are thinking of Kelsey and are mourning for her. Kelsey may no longer be here physically, but she has already saved lives. Because of Kelsey, more young women will take self-defense classes. Because of Kelsey, more young women will start to become more viligant in public areas. Her life has already touched many lives, including my own. With time, I hope your pain starts to ease. Look around this message board, you have so many strangers including myself that are sending you our love and support. Please don't lose your faith in the world or God.
Thank you for raising such a beautiful and intelligent young lady.
I'm truly sorry for your family's loss. I have a 13 year old sister and this story has really taken hold of me. I'll pray for you all and for Kelsey. She is now in peace with our father and the King of Kings.
I am Sabrina from Shanghai,China.I read each and every condolent words and I am glad to find Smith family surrounded by so many caring people.So much I want to say but it goes beyond word. Best wishes to Kelsey's mom and dad and boyfriend.Kelsey will be remembered and her parents will be having lots of kids all over the world.Mom and dad, be strong and live a happy life soon again!
mycrystalapple@hotmail.com
I'm so at a loss for words for you both! Even tho' I too know the pain of losing a child...I am awake at 3:30 AM thinking of her, our little Sadie...and I come sit at our computer hoping for solace for my own pain, and I find this story. I can only say that I know that your beautiful daughter is now in Heaven with Jesus and my Sadie. I am still hurting 6 years later for our own loss....I can tell you it wont be easy, and you will need to stay strong in the Lord. He is your ONLY hope and solace right now. I will be praying for your family and I sincerely hope this tragedy only brings your family closer. I will leave you with a word the Lord gave to me after my loss..."Why are you so sad my child? One day you will be with her forever in Eternity..." Robin in TN
May god be with the entire family, i couldn't sleep just thinking about the situation, May kelsey soul rest in peace!!!!
As I watch my beautiful 18 year old daughter get ready for prom tonight ~ I keep thinking about the heart wrenching agony that Kelsey's parents must be feeling today. I pray that the memories of their beautiful daughter will bring them comfort in this time of such incredible grief and heartache. I pray for Kelsey and her family and wish you peace in the arrest of the suspect.
As far away as New Jersey ... there are many who are broken hearted and we pray and support you all at this difficult time. God Bless.
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to your entire family. I hope they catch that monster and I hope he gets what he deserves! My prayers are with you!!!
Kelly, Colonia, NJ
My love and prayers go out to the Smith family. I I fight tears thinking about such a beautiful young woman being taken from us. I did not know her but I feel as if I did. I will never forget her. What a wonderful person she was. I'm sooo sorry for the loss.
THIS STUFF HAS TO BE STOPPED WE ALL NEED TO COME TOGETHER AND DEMAND STEEPER PENALTIES FOR THESE CREEPS. THEY GET OUT OF JAIL TO LIVE A LIFE, WHAT ABOUT KELSEY!! PLEASE EVERYONE WRITE LETTERS MAKE PHONE CALLS TO THE MAYOR, THE GOVERNOR, THE PRESIDENT LETS NOT LET THIS HAPPEN AGAIN. i WILL BE GLAD TO DIRECT PEOPLE TO THE RIGHT NUMBER TO CALL OR ADRESS TO WRITE TO. IT IS TIME FOR A CHANGE.
email = nbraz1981@yahoo.com
I am soooo very sorry for your loss of such a beautiful daughter..hold the memories of her high spirit in your hearts forever. justice will be served for the one that has done this to her..god bless..
I've been watching this case from New York and I am a member of Law Enforcent here. I have been hoping for a happy ending to this very sad story. My thoughts and prayers are going out to your family in your time of grief. I have a 15 year old daughter and can't imagine the pain I would feel. It sickens me to think that scumbags like this exist on the face of this earth. I can never understand how some people can be so heartless and sick. God Bless Kelsey Smith and her loving family!!!!
I'm so sorry for your loss! I have 3 daughters, and I can not imagine the pain of losing one. It's scary the thought of even in a public place, you can't guarantee they're safe. My prayers go out to all the family of this beautiful young angel.
Debbie, Oklahoma
My heart breaks for the Smith family! I am so angry that women are no longer safe to go anywhere by themselves! It makes me sick to my stomach to know what twisted people there are out there! Please know that your family are in my prayers.
I am sorry for your loss. I have a 9 yr. old daughter. I worry about her safety too. God send His angels to give you comfort. Know our prayers are with you.
Rose , Indiana
I know that down here in Florida, we have been praying for this story to solve before it was too late. I will keep your family in my prayers. I know God took her hands through her final moments and carried her up. She is in the arms of the best protector of all. I know God will punish him more then our Judges will ever do!
Just know the world is watching and standing behind you. I can't imagine your pain, nor do I ever want to. From the bottom of my heart, I am so sorry for this terrible loss. God has wrapped her in his love, you can count on that. She is home now, to do her work with him. May the Lord keep you all close to him, at this time of such deep need.
Lori
God be with you.
I am so sorry to hear that some gutless monster stole your little girl. I am at work right now on the verge of tears and grieving for you. Please know that my thoughts and prayers will be with you going forward. Stay strong and know in your heart that you will see Kelsey again in the future.
Dear God in heaven, please lord give this family all that you can in this time of need for their hearts are broken. And please somehow let this family know that their beautiful daughter who is now with you loves them with all her heart and soul. Kelsey Smith is now with god in heaven and she is calm and happy and at peace from the love and joy of knowing she will one day be in heaven with those here on earth that she loves.
To the Family and Friends of Kelsey Smith - My family extends our deepest heartfelt sympathies to you in this time of despair. We have followed this story from the first we heard of it Monday morning - praying and hoping that your beautiful daughter would be found safe. Not being from the Kansas City area, but having visited there just last October - the same area where she was stolen from - and following the news media - we feel like we knew her, even though we did not. We cannot imagine your pain, and are having a difficult time ourselves explaining it to our 12 year old daughter. Know that people all over the world are mourning your loss and extending our prayers to you in this devastating time in your lives. Stay strong in the Lord, and he will get you through.
Very, very sorry for your loss of your beautiful daughter, sister, granddaughter & friend. I'm praying for you all. Your Kelsey loved you all very much and she wants you to know this.
God bless you in Jesus name!
I have been following the story since the day she dissappeared. Last night, after hearing the news she was found, I broke down in tears and wept for the family. A mother who bore this child, never to expect to loose her so quickly. As a mother of a young daughter, I can only imagine a small portion of what you may be going through. May God be with you as you struggle to find understanding. Just rest knowing that Beautiful Kelsey is in His arms now and she will never be hurt again.. She is an Angel in heaven now...and and Angel forever in our hearts....
I'm so, so sorry for the loss of your precious daughter. God be with you and comfort you.
Sincerely,
Marci Zinn, Crooksville, OH
My heart goes out to you on your loss. Kelsey is in the arms of the Lord now; praise God that He gives us hope for the future.
May God bless you and keep you.
Rick
Woodstock, Ga
Psalm 23 1:6
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; they rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
To Kelsey's family - our prayers are with you, not only today, but for days to come.
God will pick you up and carry you through this difficult time.
Kelsey is now your angel watching over all those she loves.
We are no one to judge - it's hard to forgive and surely you won't forget, but GOD will take care of the person responsible for Kelsey leaving this life. You should not worry - leave it in GOD's hands and he will seek the justice that must be severed...
God Bless you all,
Sanchez Family - Houston, Texas
I am so sorry for your loss. From all the stories on tne news Kelsey was a special young lady. I am the father of two young girls and I worry about their safety all the time. I will never understand why this has to happen to such promising and wonderful people. I will keep all your family, friends and community in my prayers.
Brian Ebert, Cincinnati, OH
I have recently been through a very tragic loss losing my father in law on mothers day. I feel for your family. Such a young life. I am a mother of one son, 1 yrs old, and I cant imagine what your going through but I do know God is looking over you and your family. He was there for me when I needed him and hes there for you. God Bless.
Smith Family,
I'm so so sorry for your loss.
Just say God needed another Angel.
She will always be with you and in
all of our hearts. My love and
prayers go out to you. I wish I could hold all of you in my arms and make it all go away.
God Bless.
Stacy in Florida.
I have a daughter and am always thinking how I can best protect her from predators. I think the answer is education. Educating her on always being aware of her surroundings... night or day. Use her instincts. If she is confronted in a public place, to never go willingly. Even if she were stabbed or shot resisting, she would have a better chance of surviving in that parking lot with help arriving, than going with a predator.
This is a very sad situation and it is unfortunate that you have to practice defensive living today.
Words cannot describe the sadness I feel in my heart for your loss and the unbelievable reality you are facing now. I have been following this since the very beginning and praying for Gods most abundant peace and comfort for your family. We surely do not know why these things happen and wish they didn't. May you rest in Gods loving arms and let Him just carry you and guide you through this time. I will continue to pray for your family.
Our hearts are sad today. Can't even imagine the pain. She was a beautiful young girl...just watching her walk out of Target with so much purpose breaks our hearts. God Bless you all!
Montverde, Fl
We are so sorry for your loss. We have a 6 yr old girl and are dreading the day when she goes out into the world without us by her side. What is going on in this in crazy crazy world when a HS graduate isn't even safe going shopping @ Target. Another young beautiful life taking away by a monster. Our thoughts and prayers are with you today & always. May you feel comfort in knowing Kelsey is by God's side watching over your family. Bless you all....
The Champlin Family
Prescott Valley, AZ
My thoughts are with you, sorry to hear of such a sad loss, she looked like a lovely girl!
TM
England, United Kingdom.
I would like to send my deepest condolences to the Smith Family. ALthough I do not know any of you, my heart goes out to you! It is such a tragedy and I HOPE to God that this guy who snatched her and ruthlessly murdered her rots in h**l!
May God be w/you all in your time of mourning! May Kelsey rest in Peace and how fortunate for Heaven to have her!
From a former police officer, fellow Missourian, and (most importantly here) husband and father of two, I speak for my family when I tell you how sorry we are for your lose. Our youngest son, now of high school age, was nearly abducted at the age of 5, only to have the attempt thwarted by my wife, who was being a very vigilant mother. Hearing of your story, I now look at our son and realize how unbelievably fortunate we truly are. Our prayers are with your family always. Please stay together and stay strong.
I watched - I prayed. I cried.
It is so hard to make any sense of this. May God surround the family and friends with his comfort and love.
Pat Justice -Georgia
My thoughts and prayers are with the Smith Family at this difficult time in need. May God give you the strength you need to get through. God must have needed an angel, but I am so sorry to hear he needed yours.
I am a 9th Grade History Teacher from St. Louis and I have been following this sad story from it's beginning. I was hoping so much that your beautiful daughter would be found safely. As a teacher who tries to protect her students as much as possible, this sort of tragedy reminds me just how quickly a precious child can be taken from us. I am truly saddened for your loss and I wish all of the prayers in the world for you and your family.
There is so very much one wants to be able to say at this awful time, but no words that even come close to expressing adequate condolences over such an evil and senseless act. True justice can only come from One-that is God. Certainly Kelsey has her reward now. May He bless and sustain all those who knew, loved, and cared about her personally and help them find some measure of peace.
All I can say is WHY!!! This young woman with so much to give in her life, will now not be able to. What could drive someone to do such violence? My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and hope the person responsible for this tragedy is brought to justice. I live in California, near San Francisco where we've had our share of abductions. I hope this tragedy will somehow educate kids to always be aware of their surroundings and also whenever possible go with friends.
Our hearts bleed for your sorrow and pain. Can't even go to the mall and shop anymore. Unbelievable! Sad.
Brokenhearted for your family. Thoughts and Prayers are coming to you from Houston, Texas
The whole Smith family is in my thoughts and prayers. Please know that you have strangers standing behind you.
I am so sorry for you loss. It's unimaginable that a errand to the store can turn out this way. I've changed from going to stores in the dark to daylight. I can't believe that someone would do this in broad view of others. Why could't someone have stopped him. Please know that my thoughts are with you. I'll never forget this tragedy of such a young and pretty girl. Kelsey will be thought of many times because of this unthinkable tragedy.
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Smith,
I sit in stunned silence today because there is no explanation for something so senseless. The tears of a thousand mothers and fathers, who cannot know your pain, have been shed with yours this week.
I pray that you keep the strong family faith that we have seen these last few days and that you know, in fairh and love, that you are always with Kelsey - and she with you - resting gently in the palm of His hand. God Bless you all.
Jeannette Leroux & family
There is little to add that hasn't already been said often by many. But wanted you to know there is yet another family that mourns with you the loss of this special young lady. God bless your family, friends, and community and give you strength.
Laura Stanek
Im really sorry to hear about Kelsey, I've been keeping up to date in the last few days thru the website, and my prayers are with all of her family. I hope she finds all the happiness and peace there is. James, Ireland.
I am so so sorry about Kelsey. She is safe now! God Bless! My thoughts and prayers are with you... Melissa
My prayers are with your entire family. I did not know Kelsey, but that smile touched my heart.
I do know she is in a better place, healed & whole.
Love, hugs, & prayers..... Sherryl
Our family lives in Lenexa, KS and our kids have attended (one still is attending) Shawnee Mission West. As part of the wonderful SMWest family, our thoughts and prayers are with the Smith family during this very difficult time. Let the words and thoughts of so many people across the country (and world) help you through this time. Please know that Kelsey has touched so many lives...and caused thousands and perhaps millions of people to stop and think about what is important and precious to each one of us. Perhaps we've all taken an extra moment to look at our families with a bit more love. May you find some strength and some comfort in the words of everyone across the land.
Like all of us here, I am deeply sorry for your loss. I am a parent, and my grief for Kelsey and your family is overwhelming. I did not know Kelsey, but I do now, and she is already working with God to help my daughter learn and grow in many ways. Recall the words of Jesus in Matthew 19:14, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” We are with you in prayer and God’s love.
Eric in Shawnee
I want the Smith family to know that Sacramento, California has Kelsey and you in our hearts!! I have three daughters 11, 9 and 3 and I can't imagine the how devastating this is for you. I'm sure she was as sweet as she was stunningly beautiful. God bless you!!