Passed away March 13, 2025. Public Viewing Friday, March 21, 2025 from 12:00 Noon – 7:00 pm. Wake & Funeral Saturday, March 22, 2025 – 9:30 am & 10:00 am at South Euclid United Church of Christ 4217 Bluestone Road South Euclid, OH 44121. Interment following service at Highland Park Cemetery 21400 Chagrin Blvd. Beachwood, OH 44122.
Obituary of Benson Fleming
Heaven gained a beautiful soul when Benson Fleming, the youngest child of Luther and Mary Fleming, received his wings on March 13, 2025, at 100 years and 339 days old. Benson was born on April 8, 1924, and was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Luther Willie and BJ, and sister Sally. He journeyed through life displaying love, kindness, and an enduring spirit that touched the lives of many. He was the Patriarch of the Fleming family.
Benson’s early years were spent in Elberton, Georgia. His family moved to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1936. He was living in the Colfax area when he met Barbara Hayes. They married in June of 1946 and enjoyed almost 50 years together before her passing in 1995. This union was blessed with four children.
Benson joined the United States Army on December 7, 1942, and served in the Philippines during World War II. He earned the nickname “Chicken” when, upon falling out of a coconut tree, his arms began to flail as he grabbed for the branches. In 1950, after serving his country and working with various contractors, he was hired as a painter for the City of Cleveland. He was proud to have painted all the bridges in the Cleveland Flats and the flagpole atop the Terminal Tower (once the tallest building in Cleveland).
Benson retired in 1985 but, becoming bored, began working again until he broke his ankle six years later. He was never late for work or anything else and rarely took time off. This was a testament to the dedication, commitment, and work ethic that earned him the respect and admiration of his co-workers.
Benson’s active nature would not allow him to slow down after retirement unless he was watching his favorite TV show, “Judge Judy.” He had excelled on his junior high school track team, and that spirit led him to begin walking and running to stay fit. In addition, he was active with the local Street Club, Neighborhood Watch, 4th District Police Station drug marches, and, of course, dancing. His signature dance moves dazzled everyone attending his 100th birthday celebration, with very few…young or old…able to keep up with him.
In May of 2005, Benson married Vera Harp, to whom he was married almost 20 years before his demise. They enjoyed numerous road trips together. Benson drove wherever he and Vera wanted to go, including to Georgia, where many family reunions were held. He was always the first to RSVP!
Even at the age of 100, Benson insisted on repairing his home, including fixing his roof and painting. If there was something he felt he could do, he was not about to have anyone else to do it. When asked the secret for a long and healthy life, he’d say: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you, move your body, and keep your mind sharp.”
If you ask his family and friends who his favorite person was, everyone will say themselves because he made all of them feel special. He was a kind, compassionate, and generous man who profoundly impacted all who knew him. He leaves behind quite a legacy of family and friends who will forever cherish lessons learned and fond memories, including his wife, Vera, son Michael (LaBena) Fleming, and daughters Leslie (Don†) Jordan, Laura (Stan†) Harris, and Nancy (Sam) Stratton; stepchildren Darnay Harp, Diedra (John) Harp-Nash, Danene (Dwayne)Andrews, Laura Alexander, and Ada Alexander; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Benson was a devoted member of Quinn Chapel A.M.E.
May Benson rest in eternal peace, and may his spirit live on in the hearts of those whose lives he touched.
Sharon Weatherspoon
Praying that God brings comfort and peace, and you find solace in your faith.
Rosemarie Smith
A limb has fallen from the Family tree that says grieve not for me
Remember the best times
The laughter, the song,
The good life
I lived while I was strong
Marilyn Maxwell
We extend our prayers and condolences to Michael, LaBena and the rest of the family. We will continue to keep you lifted in prayer.
Love,
Rick and Marilyn
Gail Franklin
My prayers are with the family.
Dr. Shelle Richmond Schlosser
I am deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Benson Fleming’s passing. He was truly a pillar of the community and a steadfast presence for his neighbors on Kingsford Avenue. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering support touched so many lives, and his absence will be profoundly felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Abdullah Fadzl
Mr Benson Fleming
A real trooper, I have utmost respect and admiration for him, how he was and how he lived. I am happy to have had Benson with us for as long as he was. He will be deeply missed.
Diana Morgan
Mr. Fleming oh! how you will be missed. The joy you shown to so many and the many smiles and helping hands you gave. Each time I sat and have coffee at my kitchen windows I think of you and Vera. A smile comes to my face to know how blessed to have know you.
marion jones
Micheal and family you have my deepest sympathy on the passing of your father,we know that he is in a better place in the arms of our Lord may he rest in peace, you were bless to have him for 100 years, RIP Mr. Fleming.
Eric Peterson
Mr. Fleming, I will truly miss you and the person you were. I will also miss our long talks on the porch of your house discussing everything from neighborhood issues to politics. I will especially miss your war stories and your deep willingness to protect the neighborhood from would-be outsiders. There will never be a more kind-hearted, helpful, energetic, angry old guy like you. Everytime I come home to Cleveland, you are one of the first people I look for, because, I gotta talk to you before I leave. Know this, I loved you like you were my own father and I appreciated all you’ve done for me and my family! I will miss you, but know this, I expect to one day see you again and we can sit down on another porch and share more life stories with each other. I pray you rest in peace forever and always. Your neighbor and friend, Eric Peterson
Verona Gardner
Rest in Heaven Uncle Benson
Robert Benjamin
Thoughts and Prayers go out to you Laura and your family! God Bless!🙏🏾
Judy Foster
Send my condolences to the family and I pray that God will bless you all and hold you in his prayers Judy Foster
Christopher and Angela Irons
Sending Condolences and Prayers to your Family, friend of Laura Alexander!
Carol Williams
Sending my condolences and prayers to the family.