Elizabeth Fleming

Elizabeth Alice Fleming, age 93, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on May 24, 2023, in Olivet. Elizabeth was born on April 21, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Elizabeth Mansfield. After graduating from High School in South Haven, Michigan, she went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree at Western Michigan University in education. After obtaining her degree, she married Richard Fleming on March 28, 1958, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Soon after their marriage the family moved to Olivet. To this union were born five children; Elizabeth, Rebecca, Robert, Agatha, and Thomas.

It’s hard to sum up Elizabeth’s life in just a few sentences. She was a master gardener taking great pride in her stunning flower gardens. Elizabeth was also a talented artist who produced award winning paintings. She had an eye for great works of art and loved attending art shows across Michigan. Elizabeth also had a real heart for children. She taught at the Elementary school in Olivet for many years. Her passion for teaching, learning, and equality led her to become the President of the Olivet Teachers’ Association for many years. She was always active in her community. She helped landscape the Olivet College grounds, served as treasurer of the college Womens’ Board and was always ready and willing to help in any capacity she could. Elizabeth always had a positive attitude and this character trait was appreciated by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. In Elizabeth’s spare time or in the evenings, she could be found enjoying her other hobby of reading. She enjoyed mostly books on history and mysteries. Most of all Elizabeth loved her family. Her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were all a tremendous source of joy to her. She will be deeply missed.

Elizabeth is survived by her husband of 65 years, Richard; her children, Elizabeth “Kitty” (Mike) Ingram of Olivet, Rebecca “Becky” (Rick) Britton of Olivet, Robert Fleming of Olivet, Agatha “Aggie” (Brian) Bowen of Sturgis, and Thomas “Tom” (Tami) Fleming of Olivet; 15 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren; two brothers and two sisters.

She was preceded in death by her mother, one sister, and her mother-in-law, Helen Fleming.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at 11 A.M. at the Olivet Congregational Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at church. Burial will take place at the Olivet Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Elizabeth’s memory to the Womens' Board at Olivet College or the Food Pantry at the Olivet Congregational Church.