Connie Rene Eshelman

In Loving Memory of Connie Rene Collins Eshelman1957 – 2025

Connie Rene Collins Eshelman, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away at her home in The Woodlands, Texas, on Sunday, June 29, 2025. She was 68 years old. Though her time with us feels far too short, Connie lived with a vibrancy and fullness that many could only hope to achieve in twice the years.

Born in Lawton, Oklahoma, to Alice and LTC Marion “Buck” Collins, Connie’s early life was shaped by the adventurous rhythm of military life. As the daughter of an Army pilot, she moved frequently across the country and spent three formative years in Germany before her family settled in Temple, Texas. There, she graduated from Temple High School and later pursued nursing at Texas A&M University.

It was at A&M that fate—and a bit of serendipity—brought her together with her future husband, Mike Eshelman. He was early to class, she was late, and it was Connie who boldly asked for his number and made the first call. That spark ignited a nearly 50-year marriage filled with laughter, devotion, and the joy of raising three sons together.

Connie began her career as a NICU nurse, but when her first son was born, she chose to dedicate herself fully to her family. She became the heart of the household—part teacher, part chef, part chauffeur, and always the fiercest advocate for her boys. She was witty, strong-willed, and unapologetically herself. Her loyalty was unwavering, and her love, boundless.

Beyond her family, Connie cultivated a rich life of friendships and passions. She was an avid tennis player, a voracious reader who cherished her book club, and a devoted animal lover who gave her time and heart to The Woodlands Dog Park Club. Her energy was magnetic, and her presenceunforgettable.

In the past 12 years, her greatest joy came from her six grandchildren. Whether cheering at swim meets, celebrating birthdays, or planning family vacations, Connie was always at the center—organizing, encouraging, and loving with all her might.

The last two years of her life were marked by extraordinary courage. Connie faced cancer with the same determination and toughness that defined her life. Through countless treatments, surgeries, and setbacks, she never complained. She continued to travel, to laugh, and to live fully, astonishing even her doctors at MD Anderson with her resilience. In her final weeks, she was surrounded by the family she adored—just as she wished.

Connie was preceded in death by her beloved parents. She is survived by her devoted husband, Mike Eshelman of The Woodlands; her sons Ryan (Tiffany) of The Woodlands, Kyle (Whitney) of San Diego, and Colin (Lyndsay) of McKinney; her cherished grandchildren Ellie, Claire, Calvin, Miller, Jack, and Charlee; her sister Terri Tomlinson of The Woodlands; her brother Mike (Dana) Collins and sister Melanie (Mike) Andreo, both of Austin.

We love you mom.  We’re really going to miss you.  The boys and girls are really going to miss you.  Though we are heartbroken, we find comfort in the words of Calvin: “You’re just gone for now. We’ll see you again.”

In lieu of a traditional service, the family will be organizing a pickleball tournament in The Woodlands to celebrate Connie’s life, laughter, and competitive spirit. Details will be shared soon