Martha Kluttz Hickman

Martha Kluttz Hickman passed peacefully into God’s loving arms and eternal life at the age of 94 on January 18, 2026. Born on June 11, 1931, in Concord, NC, she was the middle daughter of the late Adam and Lucille Kluttz.

Following graduation from Concord High School in 1949, Martha received a business degree from UNC Women’s College-Greensboro and pursued various bookkeeping roles. In 1956, she married Herman Hickman, and they began their family in Winston-Salem, NC. In 1968, they relocated to Rockingham, NC, where she lived for 50 years before moving to be closer to her children.

In addition to being a devoted wife and loving mother, Martha was a dedicated member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hamlet, NC, where she served faithfully in many capacities, including the church council, choir, and food pantry. Once her children reached high school, Martha enjoyed working at several medical practices in the community.

Her legacy will live on as one who was very determined, kind, gracious, clever and humble. She derived great joy from working puzzles, playing bridge and gardening. Evidence of her exceptional sewing talents and perfected recipes will grace the homes of her children and friends for years. All who know Martha can attest that some of her most cherished times were spent serving in her church and spending time at Ocean Isle Beach. A blissful day for her would begin with a cup of coffee, several rounds of solitaire, a sewing session with her dear friend Sally, topped off with a bowl of chocolate ice cream and a Hallmark movie.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband of 43 years, and her sisters Mary Ruth Propst and Betty Jean Beeker. Martha will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by her family and friends. She is survived by her children Lillian (Shigeo), Nancy (Steve), and Eddy (Beth); grandchildren Stephanie, Ashley (Mike), and Harrison; and great-granddaughters Clara and Vivian.

Martha’s family extends sincere gratitude to all who helped with her care in later years at Trinity Elms, and especially her personal caregivers Darlene and Juana.

A graveside burial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, January 23, 2026 at Richmond County Memorial Park Cemetery in Rockingham, NC. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026 at 2:00 pm at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Hamlet, NC, preceded by visitation with the family at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church, 311 Marlboro St. Hamlet, NC 28345.

Hayworth-Miller Kinderton Chapel is assisting the family.