Celebrating the Life of Michelle “Shelly” Denise (Collins) Anderson

Michelle “Shelly” Denise (Collins) Anderson, 57, of Gallatin, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 25th, surrounded by her loving family at her home in League City, Texas. Though her time here was far too short, Michelle’s life was full—full of laughter, adventure, deep compassion, and unwavering love.

Born on December 18, 1967, to Robert and Sharon (Hill) Collins, Michelle was the youngest of five and grew up in Gallatin, Missouri. Known for her radiant smile and kind-hearted spirit, Michelle brought light to every room she entered. Her early years were filled with baton twirling, roller skating, and the joy of being with her close-knit family. She was crowned Court-Warming Queen and graduated with the Gallatin High School Class of 1986—already a beloved figure among her peers.

Michelle’s life was one of exploration and open-hearted connection. After graduation, her journey took her across the globe, including several years living in Germany, where she welcomed her first son, Logan. Upon returning to the States, Michelle and Logan settled in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where fate intervened in the form of a small townhome community. It was there she met the love of her life, Jason Anderson.

In true Michelle fashion—spontaneous, joyful, and deeply loving—she and Jason decided on a whim to marry the evening of August 8, 1995. That decision sparked nearly 30 years of devoted partnership, filled with the kind of love that inspires those lucky enough to witness it. Together, Michelle, Jason, and Logan moved to League City, Texas, where they were joined by Jason’s son, Joshua. In 1997, their family grew again with the birth of their daughter, Katie.

Michelle was the heart of her family. She created a home where love was unconditional and laughter was constant. Backyard get-togethers, spirited soccer games, and cozy evenings with loved ones were the soundtrack of their lives together. Michelle had a gift for making everyone feel welcome—whether you were family, friend, or just someone passing through her life.

Her passion for nurturing others led her to a career working with children, first as a babysitter and then in the Clear Creek Independent School District, where she spent nearly two decades impacting the lives of countless students and colleagues. Michelle had a servant’s heart and a teacher’s soul. She was the kind of person who lifted others just by being herself—genuine, generous, and full of grace.

Michelle’s greatest joy, though, was being a mother and grandmother. She celebrated every success, every milestone, every small moment in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives. Her love was steady, vocal, and overflowing. She was their biggest cheerleader and most constant source of strength.

In May 2023, Michelle was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer. She met her diagnosis with the same strength, positivity, and courage that defined her life. Though cancer ultimately took her physical presence, it never touched her spirit. Her grace through illness became one final, profound lesson in resilience and love.

Michelle’s legacy is one of warmth, compassion, and deep connection. She had a rare gift: she made people feel seen, heard, and valued. Her laugh was contagious, her hugs healing, and her kindness boundless. She never knew a stranger, and she would give the shirt off her back without hesitation. She was a golden light in this world that will continue to shine through the many lives she touched.

Michelle is preceded in death by her parents, Robert Collins and Sharon (Hill) Collins-Jones; her brother, Robert Collins; her step-parents, Sandra Beck and Jack Jones; and numerous beloved grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Jason Anderson of League City, TX; her children Logan (Heather) Negley of Dickinson, TX, Joshua (Valeria) Anderson of Fort Worth, TX, and Katie (Cassie) Anderson of Austin, TX; her grandchildren, Joshua and Jane Anderson of Fort Worth, TX; her sisters Teresa (David) Iddings of Coffey, MO and Julie Holcomb of Jameson, MO; her brother Dennis Collins of Gallatin, MO; her aunt Barbara Whitt of Jamesport, MO; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will carry her memory with them always.

In honor of Michelle’s generous spirit and loving heart, memorial contributions may be made to: To Write Love on Her Arms, a nonprofit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide https://twloha.com, or to Crab Orchard Cemetery, in care of Stith’s Funeral Home 1329 W Grand St, Gallatin, MO 64640.

Michelle’s life was a gift—one that blessed so many. Her love remains a guiding light, and her memory will be cherished forever.

The Family will receive friends on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 10:00am with a Ceremony at 11:00am at Crowder Funeral Home, 1645 East Main, League City, Texas 77573.

 

Those who are unable to attend service can live stream online.