Shirley Ann Fleming

Shirley A. Fleming, 79, passed away Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at Sunrise Assisted Living Residence in Poland, Ohio.

She was born June 26, 1936 in Ashland, Kentucky to Ray and Bess (Frazier) Rice.

Shirley was raised in Ironton, Ohio She worked for her parents dairy, Hy- Grade Milk Company. In high school, she was the head majorette of the marching band. This is where she met her soon- to- be husband, Robert Fleming, an assistant band director for the Ironton Tiger Marching Band. After graduation in 1954, Shirley and Robert began dating and were married in Ironton on June 5, 1955. They spent 57 years together.

In 1958, they moved to Warren where Robert became the Warren G. Harding band director.
Shirley worked for the Ohio Bureau of Unemployment for 10 years. After that, she became the receptionist for Dr. Harold Brodell and his wife Jean. The Brodells were their dearest friends.

Shirley loved to cook and bake. She also loved the concept of canning, especially known for her "hot peppers and oil" and her Kentucky "half white runner green beans". She enjoyed arts and crafts , especially ceramics.She traveled all over the U. S. and Canada with her husband, supporting his music career and concerts. She also traveled extensively with her mother and brothers.She and Robert especially liked traveling to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, their second home.

Surviving are her two sons, James Robert (Joanne) Fleming , her primary care giver for the last 10 years and Mark Fleming. Also surviving are her granddaughters, Jennifer and Jacquelyn Martin and great-grandchildren, Chuck, Cassie, and Tiana. Shirley also leaves behind, her brother Phillip (Patti) Rice , sister in law Judi (Neville) Rice, niece Julie (Tyler) Walters and nephew, Anthony ( Christian) Rice, all from the Ironton area.

Preceeding her in death are her husband, Robert, her brother Richard (Dick) Rice and her parents, from the Ironton area. The family would like to thank the Sunrise and also Crossroads Hospice who gave Shirley exceptional care and comfort.

As per the family's request, there will be no calling hours. Friends and family may gather at Rose Hill Burial Park in Ashland , Kentucky , Monday, March 21, 2016 at 1:00 P.M. for a graveside service officiated by Rev. Harvey.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to Crossroads Hospice 3743 Boettler Oaks Dr. Suite E Green, Ohio 44685 or The Alzheimers Association 3695 B Boardman- Canfield Rd. Suite 301 Canfield, Oh 44406.

Arrangements are entrusted to McFarland and Son Funeral and Cremation Services Co, 271 North Park Avenue, Warren, OH 44481, 330-393-9621. Please visit www.McFarlandCares.com to view this obituary or to send condolences.