James Earley Fleming

James Earley Fleming, affectionately known as Jim to his friends and family, passed away peacefully after a short battle with cancer on January 21, 2024, at his home in Ozark, Alabama. Born on September 19, 1951, in Enterprise, Alabama, Jim's life was one marked by dedication to his faith, his family, and his community.

A loving husband, father, and grandfather, Jim leaves behind his cherished wife, Nancy Fleming, and their beautiful, blended family. His legacy continues through his children: Amy Fleming (Lynn), Amanda Fleming (Jordan), Anna Touchton (Bobby), Christy Ross (Jim), and Stevie Murray (Kirsten). Jim's joy was multiplied with each grandchild, Dylan, Colbyn, Thomas, Forrest, Alec, Christopher, and Branch, who all brought immense happiness to his life. He was also survived by his mother-in-law, Helen Ellis; his brother-in-law, Rick Ellis (Liz), his sister-in-law, Susan Therrien (Dexter); and a host of nieces and nephews. He is also survived by Peggy Newman and his brother-in-law, B. J. Kautz. Jim also leaves behind his beloved furry friend, Max.

Jim was a devoted brother to Ricky Richardson, Freddy Richardson (Sheila), Karen Wessner (John), and he held fond memories of his late sister, Joyce Kautz. Jim was also preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Helen Richardson. He was preceded in death by his father, Earley Fleming, and by his parents, Pearl and Oliver Richardson, who instilled in him the values of hard work and compassion that he carried throughout his life.

Jim was a proud graduate of Fort Knox High School in Kentucky. His thirst for knowledge and commitment to personal improvement led him to Troy University, where he graduated in 1992 with a degree in Business Administration. His professional journey was diverse and fulfilling. Jim started his career at Sav-A-Stop, Inc. before moving on to W. L. Petry Wholesale. He later joined the H. T. Hackney Company, where he remained until his retirement in 2014. After retirement, Jim couldn't resist the opportunity to work at Gilland Automotive in Ozark, AL, for two years, a job he often referred to as his most enjoyable, thanks to the Gilland family.

Jim's interests were as rich and varied as his career. He was a passionate Alabama football fan, sharing his love for the game with his family every Saturday. He harbored a dream of becoming a weather chaser and was able to mark off a bucket list adventure with a trip to Mt. Washington, an experience he enjoyed with his loving wife, Nancy. Above all, Jim loved the Lord and was a member of Grandview Baptist Church. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and it radiated in his role as the caretaker to everyone he knew. Jim always had the right advice for any question posed to him, a testament to his wisdom and his selfless nature.

Jim will be remembered as a man who was the embodiment of love, faith, and selflessness. His warm presence and ability to uplift those around him was a blessing to his family and all who knew him. He was a beacon of strength and support, always putting others before himself.

As we bid farewell to Jim, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey of love, laughter, and unwavering faith. His memory will forever be a guiding light to his loved ones, an enduring legacy of a man who made the world a better place simply by being in it. Jim's passing is a moment of profound sorrow, yet his life is a wellspring of joy and inspiration that will continue to flow through the hearts of those who loved him.

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Jim Fleming was a man of honor, integrity, and boundless kindness, and though he has left this earthly realm, his spirit will forever dwell in the cherished memories of his family and friends. Rest in peace, dear Jim, until we meet again.

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604