L. Ray Fleming

Husband, Father, Pawpaw; Lamar Ray Fleming, 82, of Tampa, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026. He was born on April 19, 1944, in Tampa, Florida, where he spent his life building a legacy of faith, service, family, and leadership.

Lamar earned both his Bachelor of Science and Master’s degrees in Engineering from the University of South Florida, graduating in 1967. During his time at USF, he was a member of the Charter Class of Engineering in 1968 and was also a track and field record holder. Following graduation, he began a distinguished 16-year career with Westinghouse, where he served as a Comptroller in the Nuclear Power Division. Since, leaving Westinghouse he was an entrepreneur and CFO for Produce Exchange, our family business started by his Father in Law Charlie Grizzaffe.

A proud and devoted Bull, Lamar remained deeply connected to the University of South Florida throughout his life. His dedication to the university included serving as President of the USF Alumni Association, Co-Chair of the USF Alumni Fundraising Campaign, and a member of the USF President’s Council. In recognition of his lifelong commitment and service, he received the USF Distinguished Alumni Award. One of his favorite accomplishments came later in life when he and his wife, Virginia won a reunion Twist Dance Competition together in 2022.

Faith was the cornerstone of Lamar’s life. He faithfully served as a deacon and trustee at Carrollwood Baptist Church and devoted more than 50 years to Christian Mission Unlimited, helping coordinate mission trips and outreach efforts to serve those in need. His passion for faith, serving his church, and sharing God’s love touched countless lives.

Lamar married the love of his life, Virginia Grizzaffe Fleming, on August 6, 1966. They had their Daughter Jennifer Elise Garcia (married to Joe Garcia June 6th 1992), his grandchildren Kiera Garcia, Kacie Garcia and Jason Garcia. He was the son of Lamar and Iris Fleming, and was the brother of Landis (DiAnn), Judy (deceased), Joy (Earl Ray), Paul (Linda), Steve (Pauline), David (Connie). He also had a very large extended family of many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. Together Ray and Virginia shared nearly 60 years of marriage built on unwavering love, faith, and devotion. Above all else, Lamar cherished his family and was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

He enjoyed spending his free time golfing, skiing, gold mining, working in his yard, following investments and politics, and studying biblical prophecy and end-times scripture. He was known for his curious mind, thoughtful conversations, and lifelong desire to continue learning.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Lamar’s life on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Carrollwood Baptist Church, 5395 Ehrlich Road, Tampa, Florida 33625. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will take place at 1:30 p.m. at Garden of Memories Cemetery, 4207 E. Lake Avenue, Tampa, Florida 33610.

The family would like to express their gratitude for all the kind words and prayers. For those who want to, we would appreciate donations to Carrollwood Baptist Church or potted plants in lieu of fresh flowers to create a memory garden.

Lamar’s life was defined by his steadfast faith, generous heart, commitment to family, and dedication to serving others. His legacy of love, integrity, and service will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.