Kathleen "Kathie" Massing passed away on Thursday, January 16, at Amorem Hospice in Hudson, NC, where she had served as a social worker for 20 years. She was surrounded by family members and many of her fellow hospice family.

Born on November 10, 1952, to C. Peter Massing, Jr., and Isabel "Micky"

Massing, Kathie grew up in Orchard Park, NY. A teenager during the '60s' "Age of Aquarius," Kathie developed a sense of adventure. She loved to travel and explored occupations including cosmetology, truck driving, and bartending. She enjoyed music and attended the 1969 Woodstock festival.

Some of that "hippie" spirit remained with her throughout her life.

In 1997 Kathie earned a Bachelor of Social Work from Buffalo State College. Following graduation she moved to Caldwell County, NC, to be with her sister, Nancy. There she planted her roots. After having several positions in the social work field, she found her calling at Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care where she shared end-of-life counseling with patients and families.

Kathie loved her work, investing herself in bringing comfort, strength, and hope. Her dedication transcended mere employment. She enriched the lives of people whom she served as well as her colleagues.

In addition to her passion for work and helping others, Kathie was a gifted gardener. Along with her "flower power," she grew edibles that she joyfully shared with neighbors and friends. She had a soft spot for dogs and over the years rescued too many to count. Her goldendoodle, Maggie, held a special place in her heart.

Kathie valued her close friendships, which included her hospice family and her neighbors. She had a warm and generous spirit of giving to anyone in need.

Kathie is preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Nancy Carpenter, and Barbara "Barbie" Massing.

Those left to cherish her memory include her sister Debra Clark (Dale), nephew Aaron Carpenter, nieces Cari Anne Bailey and Kelly Lynn Clark, great niece Ciara Alexis Chamorro, great nephew Kohl Carpenter, special cousin Donna Jane "Janie" Waters, and special friends Sonya Triplett, Roz MacGuire, Diane Hamby, and Stephanie Spencer. Kathie's beloved Maggie will miss her.

Those who wish to remember Kathie with a donation can contribute to Amorem Hospice, 902 Kirkwood Ave NW, Lenoir, NC 28645 or Foothills Canine Rescue, 220 Joyceton Church Rd SW, Lenoir, NC 28645.

A celebration of Kathie's life will be held on Saturday April 26, 2025, at 2:00 pm at the McCreary Family Professional Center, 526 Pine Mountain Road Hudson, NC.