Constance R. Colbree

Constance Rae (Gardner) Colbree, aged 89, peacefully transitioned to heaven on October 22, 2024, surrounded by her family as the soothing notes of "Jesus Loves Me" played softly in the background. Born on Easter Sunday, April 21, 1935, in Ashley, Ohio, Connie was the beloved daughter of Cecil and Pauline (Osborn) Gardner. Her early years were marked by a deep engagement in her community, particularly through her education and church involvement.

Connie’s academic journey began at Elm Valley High School, where she was not only the homecoming queen but also an active participant in band, chorus, dramatics, and cheerleading. Her passion for learning led her to The Ohio State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. For 30 years, Connie dedicated herself to teaching, first working with special needs students in Whitehall and later serving as a long-term substitute teacher before taking a permanent position at Waldo Elementary School. There, she spent 24 fulfilling years, shaping the lives of countless first graders, and continued to take joy in meeting her former students throughout her life.

A devoted member of the Ashley Methodist Church from a young age, Connie contributed her talent as an organist and choir member. Her commitment to service extended beyond the church; she was a dedicated member of the Eastern Stars for 71 years, a 20-year member of the Ohio Heartland Sweet Adelines, and a charter member of State-Wide TWIG 8, where she served as treasurer for 36 years. This organization raised an impressive $650,000 for Children’s Hospital, placing them among the top ten fundraisers to this day.

Connie found love while studying at The Ohio State University, marrying her husband Paul with whom she shared 48 joyous years. An avid Buckeye fan and member of The OSU Alumni Club of Marion County, Connie reveled in attending OSU football games, Skull sessions, proudly wearing her OSU attire. The sight of the OSU marching band brought tears to her eyes, particularly during the iconic “Script Ohio.” Connie’s loyalty to her alma mater was a cherished aspect of her identity.

In her later years, Connie enjoyed participating in activities at the Marion Senior Center, where she served on the board. She initiated a Mahjong class in 2010 and relished various activities such as cards, Bingo, and community outings. Following her move to Columbus in 2016, she remained active at the Gahanna Senior Center. Her enthusiasm for horses also drew her to the Brown Jug races in Delaware, where she marveled at their beauty. Most recently, Connie resided at Smithsmill Health Campus in New Albany, participating in crafts and other engaging activities.

A woman of compassion, Connie and Paul welcomed many stray animals into their home, including a pony named Neptune who found warmth during the blizzard of 1978. Connie’s deep affection for her family shone brightly through her roles as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and friend. She is survived by her daughter Paula (Doug) Melvin of Columbus, son Mark (Karen) Colbree of Prospect, grandchildren Lindsey Bolinger (Michael) Corcoran, Drake (Angelique Coleman) Colbree, and step-grandson Donovan Melvin, along with her great-grandchildren, Ireland and Brantley Corcoran, Wyatt and Addison Colbree, and Isabella Schlichting, and special neighbors and friends George and Debby Taylor.

As her family reflects on the remarkable life of Connie Rae Colbree, they remember her devotion to education, her passionate support for her community, and her boundless love for family and animals. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Paul, an infant daughter, granddaughter Kelsey Bolinger, brother Ted Gardner, grandparents Cullen and Spray Osborn and Newton and Jenny Gardner.

Cremation is being handled by Neptune Society of Ohio. In lieu of a service the family will celebrate Connie’s life privately, as she loved her family and all of them being together. If you are so inclined, you may donate in Connie’s name to The Fort Morrow (Waldo) Fire District or any humane society or animal rescue organization of your choice.