In 2022, I received a message on Ancestry.com that would change my life forever. A woman named Michelle Davis Jones from Durham, North Carolina, reached out to me with a story and a hope that we might be connected. Little did I know, this DNA test I had taken years ago would lead me to not only my sister but also brothers I never knew I had. Here is our story of discovery, connection, and newfound family.
The First Message That Started It All
It began with a message from Michelle:
"Good morning! I’m Michelle Davis Jones from Durham, North Carolina, and you have come up in my Ancestry as close family. This is only the second time this has happened. Do you know Lynne David? You actually come up as having half of my DNA. How is that possible?"
Her words were filled with curiosity and longing. She told me this discovery filled a 54 year old hole in her life. As I read her message, I felt both confusion and uncertainty. Could this be real? Could we truly be connected? How?
Unpacking Our Roots
Michelle shared more details about herself. She explained that her mother had passed away in 1980, leaving her with unanswered questions about her father. She had two daughters growing up and had always wondered about her paternal side. My own journey to understanding my family roots had been largely focused on my maternal side, with names like McRae, David, and Davis coming from Laurel Hill and Laurinburg, North Carolina. The connection seemed too close to be a coincidence.
Michelle and I quickly discovered that we shared a staggering 1,707 centimorgans of DNA—a clear indicator that we were very close relatives. This realization sent us both on a deeper journey to piece together the puzzle.
Discovering Our Connection
Over a few days, Michelle and I exchanged messages, comparing family histories. We talked about our mothers, our childhoods, and the possible link on my father’s side. Michelle revealed that she had never known her father, and I shared that my father, Thomas Morgan, had passed away in 1998. Could he have been the connection between us?
Michelle’s sincerity and her vulnerability touched me deeply. She wrote:
"I’m not looking for anything other than a possible relationship. I served in the U.S. Army, currently work for the government, and am blessed with three daughters and three grandchildren. Life is good, but this news fills a gap I’ve carried my whole life. I hope this doesn’t scare you away."
Her words were filled with love and hope, and I knew I had to continue this journey with her.
A Time of Grief and Reflection: Connecting Amid Loss"
In March 2022, Michelle reached out to me twice—on March 3 and March 15—hoping to establish a connection. At that time, I couldn’t respond right away because my mom had just passed. On April 5, 2022, I finally contacted Michelle, but it wasn’t until my mother passed away in March 11 2022 that I was truly unable to talk. During that grieving time, all communication ceased. It was a challenging period, and I needed time to heal.
Reconnecting After Loss
Couple of years later, in July 2024, I finally logged back on to Ancestry.com. To my surprise, Michelle had hired a genealogist and registrar to help her with her search. Oh, Girlfriend was serious. She had made great strides in locating her family and had identified me as her sister. That was when I picked up the phone and called Michelle. Since that moment, we’ve been in constant contact, and it’s been a beautiful journey of rediscovery and connection. Here is the kicker, not only are we sisters, we have 4 brothers and low and behold, I AM THE OLDEST.
A New Chapter of Siblings
Since then, Michelle, my brothers and I have continued to grow our relationship. It’s surreal to think about how a simple DNA test led us to each other. Through messages, calls, and shared family stories, we are in the process of piecing together the chapters of our lives that were previously missing.
Michelle’s determination to find me after all these years is a testament to the power of family and the incredible tools we now have at our fingertips. Ancestry.com didn’t just reveal our DNA; it revealed a bond that was waiting to be rediscovered.
Reflection on the Journey
As I look back, I think of the scripture in Isaiah 61:3 "To all who mourn he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair".
Out of a season of mourning came a beautiful connection with a loving sister and strong brothers I never knew I had. The SIBS (as I so affectionally call them) and I have committed to staying in contact and growing in love, nurturing this newfound bond that has brought healing and hope to us all.
This experience has taught me so much about the importance of finding out where you come from and who you come from. I’ve learned that connections can heal old wounds and bring a sense of wholeness and closure we didn’t even know we were missing.
To anyone who’s considering taking a DNA test or reaching out to a potential relative, I encourage you to take that leap. You never know who’s on the other side of that connection or what it could mean for your life.
Through DNA and determination, I gained not only a sister and brothers but also a new understanding of my own story. For that, I am eternally grateful.
Your Turn: Discover Your Own Legacy
Our stories are what connect us and give meaning to our lives. It’s so important to know where you come from and who you come from. That’s why I encourage you to start documenting your journey today with My Life, My Legacy.
This journal is designed to help you reflect, record, and preserve your story for generations to come. Choose the format that works best for you:
- Click here to purchase the digital copy of My Life, My Legacy.
- Click here to purchase the physical copy of My Life, My Legacy.
Begin your journey of discovery and connection today, and ensure that your story becomes a cherished legacy for generations to come.