Herbert “Herb” Fleming, a cherished soul known for his warm friendliness and adventurous spirit, passed away peacefully in Morgantown at the golden age of 99 on May 31, 2024.
Born on Oct. 21, 1924, in the small town of Cassville, Herb was a man deeply rooted in community and family values.
Herb was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margaret “Peggy” Lee Benson Fleming, as well as his parents, Glenn and Dorothy “Mae” Core Fleming.
The legacy of his loving family continues through his son, Kent Fleming and his wife, Bonnie, of Jane Lew, W.Va.; his daughter, Emily Fleming, of St. Albans; his grandchild, Mike Pickens and his wife, Leslie, of Weston; and his great-grandchildren, Damian, Landry, Brock, Peyton, Nathan and Brooke. His departure is also deeply felt by his brother, Fred Fleming and his wife, Dolly, of Cassville, and he is remembered fondly by several nieces, nephews and their families.
His sister, Katherine Fleming, and brother and sister-in-law, Smith and Ann Fleming, as well as his sister-in-law, Dorothy Jean Benson, and brother-in-law and his wife, George and Betty Benson and sister-in-law and husband, Betty and Sam Brock, preceded him in death.
Herb’s military service ran deep in his veins. Enlisting in the Navy from 1943-46, he served with distinction aboard the USS Nehenta Bay, CVE 74. His camaraderie with fellow servicemen was further cemented by joining organizations like the Aircraft Carrier Sailors and Airmen Association and The Ancient Order of the Deep. Upon his return to civilian life, he became a dedicated member of the Morgantown VFW and American Legion.
Beyond his military service, Herb dedicated over 40 years to the craft of carpentry through the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of Morgantown. His skill and dedication to trade and community were unparalleled.
Herb and his family were longtime members of the United Methodist Church. He was a life member of the Westover United Methodist Church, where he was a longtime trustee and an active member of the United Methodist Men’s organization.
His commitment extended beyond his profession as he was a life member of the National Rifle Association and held membership in the Morgantown Odd Fellows Lodge.
Herb’s connection to his birthplace was profound, remaining a proud steward of farming in the community. His love for the land was evident in his enjoyment of hunting, fishing, 4-H and community volunteer work. He had an innate ability to help neighbors in need, embodying the true essence of a pillar in the community.
Living a life marked by loyalty and passion, Herb was an ardent WVU sports fan. His attendance at many home and away games showcased his unwavering support for local teams. Along with his wife, Peggy, he embarked on a lifelong journey of exploration, traveling to 49 of the 50 states, preferring the scenic routes along blue line roads across America.
As we bid farewell to Herbert Fleming, we celebrate the remarkable centennial life he led with full hearts and grateful spirits. His journey on this earth may have concluded, but his essence will forever be interwoven in the history of his beloved hometown and within the memories of his treasured family and friends.
Friends will be received at the McCulla Funeral Home, 770 Fairmont Road, Westover, from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday June 5, and again from 10 a.m. on Thursday to the 11 a.m. funeral service time with Pastor Stacy Chrise-Tritt officiating. Burial will follow in the Beverly Hills Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations could be made to Westover United Methodist Church, 28 North St., Westover, WV 26501 or to Mountaineer Food Bank, 484 Enterprise Drive, Gassaway, WV 26624.
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www.mcculla.com
