Obituary of Mary Fleming

Mary Elizabeth Martin Fleming, age 87, passed away on Friday, November 2, 2012.

A native of Wake County, Mary was born on December 26, 1924 to the late William Daniel Martin, Sr., and the late Elma Mozelle Bailey Martin. Mary graduated from Hugh Morson High School in 1943 and graduated from Meredith College in 1947 where she majored in Math. She then taught high school math in Charlotte, Fayetteville, and Raleigh, (Needham Broughton) North Carolina. As a child and young woman she attended Tabernacle Baptist Church when it was located in downtown Raleigh. Upon marriage in 1955 to Bill Fleming she joined First Baptist Church, Raleigh, where she worshipped the remainder of her life. During her active years Mary served the church in many capacities, among them nursery coordinator and children's Sunday school teacher. For over 50 years she was a member of the Mary Martha Sunday School class where she cherished the fellowship with wonderful ladies and the enriching weekly studies, discussions, and prayer. Mary was an avid reader and a member of two book clubs, which provided her camaraderie with women who shared her love of reading. She and her husband were members of a bridge club that met monthly for over 50 years thru which lifelong and steadfast friendships were developed.

Mary was a devoted and loving wife and mother. She spent many dedicated years working along side her husband in their printing business, The Card Shop, Inc. However, her priorities throughout her life were her husband, children, and grandchildren. She made sure her home was a place filled with love, laughter, good food, and abundant joy.

Mary was preceded in death by her loving husband of 53 years, William "Bill" McKay Fleming, Sr. of Raleigh. Mary is survived by two daughters: Mary Beth Christian and husband John of Mclean, VA and Ruth Goldstraw and husband Ron of Severna Park, MD; son Bill Fleming and wife Laura, of Raleigh; seven grandsons, John Christian and wife Laura, Bryan Christian, Ron Goldstraw, Mark Christian, Michael Goldstraw, Will Fleming, and Daniel Christian. Her brother William "Bill" Martin, Jr. and many nieces and nephews also survive her.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, November 5, 2012 at 2:00 pm in the Sanctuary of First Baptist Church, 99 N Salisbury St, Raleigh NC, 27603. The family will receive friends following the service in the church parlor. Burial is private.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, Meredith College, or Hospice of Wake County.