Marilyn Derr Kauffman

Marilyn Derr Kauffman, passed away on June 23, 2026, in Dornsife, at the age of 90.

Born on August 19, 1935, in Harrisburg, Marilyn was the daughter of Alexander B. and Ruby (Diem) Derr. A graduate of Lower Paxton High School, she held a lifelong love for and connection to the Harrisburg community she cherished.

Marilyn began her professional life with the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association in Harrisburg and later worked for a professional theater company. She had a special love for the Harrisburg Community Theater and its successor, Theatre Harrisburg, where she was a devoted supporter for her entire life. Her enthusiasm for theater was a lasting expression of her belief in the importance of culture, creativity, and shared experience.

Marilyn served her community, first as a girl in Girl Scouts, then as a troop leader, board member, and finally as President of the former Hemlock Girl Scout Council, now known as the Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania. Marilyn served on the Line Mountain School Board, contributing her time and judgment in support of local education. She also served on the board of SUN Home Health and was an avid supporter of the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art, the Harrisburg Symphony, and Gamut Theatre. Marilyn gave generously of herself in each of these roles and demonstrated a steady dedication to the organizations and causes she believed in.

Marilyn’s life was marked by deep devotion to her family. She was married for 48 years to her beloved husband, the late Ned P. Kauffman, who died in 2010.

She is survived by her daughter, Kyle F. Kauffman, and by her nephews, Matthew Brosius, Bennett Brosius, John Brosius, Andrew Kauffman, and Tim Kauffman and their families. They will remember her for her warmth, strength, humor and the kindness she extended so naturally to those around her.

Marilyn especially enjoyed spending time in her garden, where she found peace and joy while sharing it in the company of loved ones. Those quiet moments reflected the same tenderness and devotion that defined her life. She will be remembered as a woman of generosity and love, with a passion for adventure, world travel and celebrating with friends. Her sometimes outrageous sense of humor kept everyone laughing and continues to do so even after her passing. Her presence enriched and entertained her family, her community, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A celebration of life will be announced at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to Foust Funeral Home, LLC. Trevorton, Ryan G. Foust, supervisor. A memory tribute may be placed at www.foustcares.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Marilyn’s memory to the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art, 176 Water Company Rd, Millersburg, PA 17061.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marilyn Derr Kauffman, please visit our floral store.