Marletia Kaufman

Marletia Killian Kaufman, 64 of Bostic, formerly of Granite Falls, entered into the loving peace of her Lord on December 6, 2025, while surrounded by compassionate care at Carolina Caring Hospice in Hickory.

Marletia was born on January 2, 1961 in Catawba County, to the late Thomas R. Killian and Jewel Burgin McWilliams, A gentle spirit with a servant’s heart Marleita devoted many years to Caldwell County Public Schools, where she worked in the cafeteria and was loved for her kindness and care of children. She was a member of Christ United Lutheran Church, where her love for the Lord and her church family were a blessing to all who knew her.

In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband, Joel William Kaufman; and her brother, Timothy “Tuff” Killian.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son, Alan “A.J.” Herrick, Jr. of Hickory; her sister Kimberly Phillips and husband Larry of Bostic; her step-son, Troy Kaufman of Hudson; and one granddaughter, Maddy Kaufman of Hudson.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 2:00-4:00 P.M. at Mackie Funeral Service in Granite Falls.

Memorial contributions may be made to Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue, 380 U.S. 221 Rutherfordton, NC 28139.

Mackie Funeral Service & Cremations of Granite Falls is serving the family.