Edward J. Fleming Dies August 2

Edward J. Fleming, formerly of Southampton, died August 2, 2018, surrounded by his family, in Durham, North Carolina. He was 90.

Mr. Fleming was born on September 6, 1927, in the Hell’s Kitchen area of Manhattan. He trained to become a boxer and worked at the Boys Athletic Club. He joined the Navy and continued boxing while stationed in Hawaii. Once back in New York City, he trained three boys who went on to became Golden Gloves champions.

While in Roosevelt Hospital for surgery, he met a special nurse, Nancy Holden. She became the love of his life and they were married for 65 years. In 1951, they moved to Southampton, Nancy’s hometown, where they raised their three daughters.

Mr. Fleming worked at Mackay Radio and Nugent and Potter Plumbing for many years. Later, he was a salesman for Hardinge Inc., covering Long Island.

He and his wife were members of the Basilica Parish of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, served as Eucharistic ministers, and were part of a charismatic prayer group in Sag Harbor. Mr. Fleming was a dedicated member of the choir who wrote and copyrighted 28 Christian songs. He sang his songs at baptisms, first Communions, weddings, and funerals. His voice and songs are a great part of his legacy, survivors said.

Mr. Fleming and his wife retired to Sun City Center, Florida in 1996. He performed in several annual shows, hospice fundraisers, and local establishments. In 2009, they moved to Durham to be closer to family.

Mr. Fleming was predeceased by his wife, Nancy; a grandson, Andrew Hall; and other family members.

He is survived by three daughters and sons-in-law, Gay (Mal) Gibson, Deborah (Ray) Halsey, and Laurie (Jim) Hall; grandchildren Michele Gibson, Kim (Howard) Gibson Forrest, Jennifer, Ryan and Jason Halsey, Brandon and Jordan Hall; great-grandchildren Jaylyn, Jessie, Jovie, Jax, Jaeger and Jamison Forrest and Dylan Gibson; and a sister, Ann.

Funeral services were held on August 6 at Mitchell Funeral Home, followed by interment at Raleigh Memorial Park in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Donations may be made to the Durham Rescue Mission, Box 11368, Durham, NC 27703-0368. The Durham Rescue Mission encourages those who are homeless and needy by providing a helping hand.