Gene Francis Fleming

A native Texan, Gene was born in Crosby, Texas, on September 18, 1936. After graduating from Crosby High School in 1955, he joined the United States Army. Through a remarkable turn of events during his service, he met the prettiest woman he had ever known, Viola "Vi" Maki. They married and remained devoted companions for nearly 70 years.

Setting roots in Crosby, Gene and Vi raised their two daughters, Diane and Jennifer. Following his retirement from the Exxon Refinery, Gene dedicated his time to his community and found great joy in his involvement with the Crosby Methodist Church.

Gene was a passionate craftsman who built a woodworking shop adjacent to his home. He spent countless hours crafting various projects, but his absolute favorite was making wooden toys, which he generously gifted to anyone who wanted one. He also loved tending to his flower garden and was an avid reader of action and adventure novels, often reading up to seven books simultaneously.

Though he was a quiet man, Gene had a remarkably engaging manner. He possessed a rare gift for turning strangers into lifelong friends. His deep faith and community spirit brightened the lives of everyone he met, and he truly cherished all the folks he crossed paths with throughout his life.

Gene was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Viola "Vi" Fleming; his parents, Luther and Irene Fleming; and his siblings, Mark and Delores.

His memory will be cherished forever by his devoted daughters, Diane Fleming Brewer and her husband Bo, and Jennifer Fleming; his brother, Danny Fleming and his wife Mary; his sister, Debby Moy and her husband John; his sister-in-law, Carole Maki; and many loving relatives and lifelong friends.

A Graveside service will be held at Sterling~White Cemetery, 11011 Crosby Lynchburg Rd, Highlands, TX 77562, US, on May 28, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.