Aftin Ellis (Thofson) was born on Feb. 24, 1983, in Mason City, Iowa. She was confirmed in the Lutheran faith at Grace Lutheran Church in Kingman, Ariz. She graduated from Kingman High School in 2001. She married Larry Ellis in 2006. Aftin spent her life working with children and adults with special needs.

She leaves behind her beautiful children, Aaliyah and Alden; parents Mitchell and Barbara Thofson; sisters: Amber O’Banion and Alicia Thofson Fillion; brother Tyler Thofson; grandmother Marietta Stacey; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Aftin’s heart was giant, as those whose lives she touched would witness. She was always helping others, making sacrifices of herself. She went to be with the Lord on June 2, 2012.

Viewing was from 5 to 7 p.m. June 8 at Sutton Funeral Home at 1701 Sycamore Ave. The funeral was held at Praise Chapel, Kingman, Ariz., at 10 a.m. June 9 at 419 Harrison St. A memorial service will be held at First Lutheran Church in Glenville at 11 a.m. June 23. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be available for her children.