Ernest Layne Fleming

Ernie was born December 1, 1944 in Wise County, Virginia to Ernest Lane Fleming and Dixie Lee Blackwell Fleming. He passed from this life on January 3, 2022 in his home in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. He was 77.

His early years were spent in the Norfolk Virginia area. This is where he developed his love of music and particularly great guitar players like Chet Atkins. On Sunday afternoons, he would often play music with his father and his cousin, Sam, who lived nearby. His love of music was a lifelong passion.

He graduated from Great Bridge High School in 1963. After graduating he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he received training in electronics and mechanical skills which served him well the rest of his life. While still in the Air Force he met Juanita LaRue and after he was discharged, they married and had 3 children.

After a few years with Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company, he answered the call to become an evangelist and served in the ministry for over 20 years in various parts of the country. He also used his skills in electronics working as an equipment repair technician servicing televisions, VCR's and other electronics. He finished his career working for a government contractor installing security equipment in United States Embassies and Consulates around the world.
Ernie was known for his keen sense of humor and friendly out-going personality which led to him making friends all over the world. He was a devoted husband, father and was very proud of his family.

Ernie was a lifelong student of the Bible and he studied it extensively throughout his life. He was also a teacher of the Word; passing along many insights that God had shown him.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Juanita LaRue Fleming; son, Michael Wayne Fleming and daughter, Michelle Elayne Fleming of Rio Rancho, New Mexico; daughter, Melissa RoJane Fleming-Miller and grandson, Elijah Matthew Miller of Greensboro, North Carolina; brother, Steve Vernon Fleming, Sr. and wife, Billie of Spring, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to St. Jude's Children's Hospital (www.stjude.org).