Obituary of John Walter Fleming

John Walter Fleming, affectionately known as "Jake", was born on April 15, 1948, in Kingstree South Carolina to the late Charles and Mable Fleming. Jake was one of seven children, and moved with his family to Philadelphia in 1955. He was enrolled in the Philadelphia Public School System, and graduated from Dobbins Technical Highschool. He was elected as the president of his school, and selected as the valedictorian, received several accolades for both his academic and athletic achievements. While enrolled in college Jake was drafted into the United States Army, serving from 1968-1974. Jake was proud veteran, and fought for our country and freedom during the Vietnam War, serving in 37th SIG BN as a Sergeant, of Special Forces. Before being honorably discharged from the army, Jake was awarded the Bronze Star Army Commendation Medal, and received Distinguished Honors from the Indian Armed Forces as well as the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Jake began his career on the railroad at Reading Company. His professional career ended in 2014 when he retired as a communications foreman from SEPTA, where he was employed for 43 years. In 1974 Jake was joined in holy matrimony to his teenage sweetheart, Doretta Fleming. He was a devoted husband, and together they shared 44 beautiful years. Jake was a loving father to Kee-va Fleming, Kaneice Bridges (Jeffrey), and Chynna Fleming; A caring brother to Ruby Reed (Johnny), Francis Gould,  Charles Fleming Jr. (Lillian) , Rochelle Fleming-Finney (Robert),  brother in laws Shirp Johnson, and  Steven Garcia;  And a loving grandfather to Zakhai, Milan, and Zuri. Jake was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Mabel Fleming, Mother and Father in Law, Willie, and Barbara Albert; sisters Naomi Johnson, and Mabel Johnson, brother in laws James Gould, Leroy Garcia, and Anthony Garcia. He leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family, and many dear friends he also considered family.

Jake played all sports, and was a Philly sports team fanatic, but was an avid fan of the EAGLES. He was well known for his EAGLES bus, and tailgating at every home game. He was overjoyed when they won the super bowl in 2018. He loved being outdoors, and enjoyed playing golf, and taking fishing trips with his friends.  Jake touched the lives of many and enjoyed being surrounded by family and friends. He was known as a selfless person who prided himself on always being there to help when needed. He will be remembered for his infectious personality, and sense of humor, and will sorely be missed by many.

For My Husband,

You were the kind of man that takes care of things day in, and day out, dependable as the ocean tides. I treasured you, your loyalty, and dependable love. Doretta

For My Dad,

You were my protector, defender, hero, and friend

Kee-va

A letter to my dad,

You were my hero, the greatest man I've ever known. I could always count on you for anything, your capabilities as a father seemed effortless. You were strong, fearless, caring, loving, selfless, and funny; you were perfect to me in every way. I was so proud to be your daughter, and to call you my dad. I can not imagine what life will be like without you. Even in your passing without us knowing you continued to plan for us, making sure we would be ok without you, and for that I am thankful. I am thankful that Jeff and our children had the opportunity to know the amazing man I knew. It broke my heart to lose you, but you did not go alone. A part of me went with you, the day God called you home. Your golden heart stopped beating, your hard working hands at rest, God broke my heart to prove to me he only takes the best. Rest Well Dad .

Kaneice 

Daddy,

You were a number one dad, a legendary father. You were my moon and the stars, the MVP, my hero. I will miss you forever and always.

Chynna