PUBLISHED ONAugust 18, 2026 10:30 PMBYSean LerTelcos, including those in Singapore, typically recycle numbers after a cooling period of several months.
That's the reason why you may receive a return message or call from the number of one of your loved ones who have departed a while ago.
Steffany Rodriguez-Neely, founder of a mothers' group in Tampa Bay, Florida, was missing her father when she decided to give his old number a call on Monday (Aug 17).
Based on the screenshots she shared, her last messages to her father, Ed Rodriguez, was in August 2024.
Unexpectedly, a reply came in: "Good afternoon, this is Junior. Somebody called me from this number?"
She replied apologetically that the number belonged to his dad until he died a couple of years ago.
"I didn't realise the number was reassigned," she replied, adding that she had just wanted to hear his voice again.
"I hadn't heard his voicemail in a while, so was just seeing if it was still connected."
Not only did Junior continue with the conversation, he became a beacon of encouragement for her.
"Aww man, I'm so sorry! I definitely wish it was still assigned to him! May your heart stay strong, love. Prayers to you and your family," he replied.
The mother of six children, aged between 1 and 26, thanked Junior for his kind words, explaining that her father held that number for over 30 years.
"I wouldn't bother you again, but I appreciate your kind words. It was actually kind of nice seeing your text message pop up and his face came up on my phone again," she said.
Junior said that she doesn't have to apologise.
"I'm just glad I was able to at least let you know. I'm happy it brought a little joy seeing his face today! I'm sure he was a wonderful man!"
Junior assured her that she could text again if she needed to.
He explained: "We all need a good uplifting laugh or word in today's time. Stay blessed!"
It brings to mind a gentle reminder that in the hectic and punishing pace of today's society, we can still care for one another and help each other along, even if the acts may seem small.
After all, as human beings, we all exist in a social context.
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