Who is Jill, Ellen, Laurie, Jimmy Daugherty, Wayne Thunder, Barbara from The Deep End of the Ocean and what is their importance?

Ellen is Beth's best friend from high school. They meet at the hotel and are planning to attend the class reunion when Ben disappears. Beth and Ellen are close, and Ellen is a great source of support for her.

Laurie Elwell has been Beth's best frend since college. She is described as very organized, and she takes over the paperwork in the search for Ben. Laurie convinces Beth to attend the Compassionate Circle meetings

Wayne Thunder is a Native American man, who is a close friend and spends Thanksgivings with Beth.

Trisha Palladino is Nick's wife. They are introduced by Beth when they are young.