Connie Beeland Nielsen

Connie Beeland Nielsen

Evergreen - Sara Condré Beeland Nielsen died peacefully at home in Evergreen, Alabama on December 16, 2018 at age 96.

Connie grew up in Greenville, Alabama with her three younger sisters, Frances, Joanne, and Prather, affectionately known to many as "Those Beeland Girls." Even though Evergreen became her home, Greenville, and her childhood home especially, was always a wonderful place that all the Beeland girls returned to often. For more than 100 years, generations of their family have gathered in the Beeland home to celebrate Christmas and special family occasions.

Connie attended college preparatory school at Washington Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia. She then went on to Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, where she made lifelong friends. She finished her education at The University of Alabama and moved back to Greenville where she met and married Knud Nielsen Jr., the greatest love of her life.

Connie was unconditionally devoted to Knud, and they shared a 67-year marriage filled with respect, laughter, and love. They traveled extensively, building wonderful relationships around the world. Connie often entertained business clients, friends, and family with grace and warm hospitality.

Knud and Connie were deeply devoted to their three children and eight grandchildren. Connie joyfully celebrated each adventure and achievement across both generations. When her grandchildren and great-grandchildren visited, she showered them with stories, gifts, and affection. Nothing made her happier than being in close touch with the younger generations.

Their grandchildren share many sweet and fond memories, especially recalling cozy mornings watching birds through their bedroom window enjoying a cup of children's coffee, a concoction of warm cream and sugar. Connie was always busy adding a touch of magic to the simplest experiences to make them even more special. Her grandchildren, and those great grandchildren that were fortunate enough to know her, simply adored her.

Connie was kind, gentle, and considerate to everyone she met. She shared the blessings of a life filled with love and joy.

Connie is survived by her sister Frances Frakes, her brother-in-law Sumpter McGowin, her children Knud Nielsen III (Cheryl), Claude Beeland Nielsen (Kate), Kristin Nielsen Koepfgen (Bruce), and her eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Knud, and precious grandson, Bruce Beyers Koepfgen.

Memorials may be sent to Evergreen First United Methodist Church Food Pantry at 118 Desplous Street, Evergreen, AL 36401.