Connie was born in Burlington, Iowa, the daughter of John Hillyer and Lowell “Bud” and Delores Helmick, and throughout her life, called several towns home, including Des Moines, Keokuk, Fort Madison, and again Burlington. Each place added a chapter to her story and shaped the spirited woman we came to know and love.
At just 13 years old, Connie met the love of her life, James Long. After five years of dating, they married on March 6, 1966, in Keokuk, Iowa, beginning a lifelong journey rooted in devotion, adventure, and love.
Connie’s spirit shone through every role she played. Whether healing the sick as a nurse or lifting spirits as a bartender, she lived in service to others. If you knew her well, you knew her as a cheerleader, encouraging you to stand up for yourself, chase your dreams, and believe that yes, you could do it.
She was a creative soul with an entrepreneurial heart, turning her love for ceramics into a business and her gift for organizing into a way to help others find peace in their homes.
With Jim and her children, they would pack up the camper and head away on weekend trips and always had memorable vacations when the kids were little, creating cherished memories across the country. Her love for travel continued throughout her life, sharing joyful journeys with close friends and countless adventures with her beloved siblings. Whether on the road or at home, she found delight in exploring with the people she loved most.
Connie cherished her family deeply. Her bond with her sisters was unwavering, and she held a protective love for her younger brother. She was a woman of many roles, mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and best friend, but through them all, one role remained constant: the encourager. Even on her final day, she found strength to thank her nurses, lifting them up with heartfelt appreciation.
She was beautiful, in the grace of her presence, the warmth of her heart, and the legacy of love she leaves behind.
She is survived by her children; Shawn (Diane) Long, Chris (Mindy) Long and Stacie (Greg) Hart; seven grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren and brothers Kevin (Carrie) Helmick and Kenny Hillyer.
She was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters Candy Ryan and Penny Helmick Kemp.
The graveside service and inurnment for Connie will be Saturday, July 26 at 12 p.m. at Aspen Grove Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow from 1 to 3 p.m. at Joe’s Inn.
According to her wishes, cremation has been accorded and entrusted to the care of Lunning Chapel.