Robert Homer Fleming

In Loving Memory of Robert "Homer" Fleming

Robert Homer Fleming left his earthly home—his beloved "Shire"—on June 12, 2026, to walk through Heaven's gates, embrace Jesus, and reunite with the many loved ones who had gone before him. 

Born on September 4, 1941, to Harvey Earl Fleming and Eilene Belle Fleming, Homer grew up in New Market, Virginia, alongside his older brothers, Harvey and Jim, and his sweet sister, Etta. Though life would take him many places, New Market forever held a special place in his heart, and he treasured the memories made there throughout his life. 

Homer leaves behind the love of his life, Lois Fleming, whose hand he held through life's joys and challenges. He also leaves behind his children, Erich, Damon, Nathan, and Greta, who were blessed to call him Dad. 

His greatest pride was his family. He was a cherished grandfather to Lance, Forest, Brianna, Kaitlyn, Emily, Gavin, Ashton, and his newly adopted grandsons, Darius, Tobias and Jericho, whom he welcomed with open arms and an open heart. Like all families, ours grew not only through birth but through love. Homer was grateful for the wonderful people who became part of the family along the way, including his daughters-in-law Michelle, Nina, Karen, and Michelle, each of whom held a special place in his life. 

Those of us left behind will continue to find him everywhere. 

We will see him in flowerbeds bordered with quartz stones, each rock carefully and strategically placed by hand. We will see him in every perfectly straight line, every detail attended to, every project completed with patience and care. His attention to detail was unmatched. He was a perfectionist in the best sense of the word, and his steady patience seemed endless. 

Those qualities served him well throughout his distinguished career as an Air Traffic Controller. 

After proudly serving his country in the United States Navy, Homer began his air traffic control career in Washington, D.C., before settling in the small town of Earlysville, Virginia. He spent many years guiding aircraft safely through the skies at Charlottesville Airport until his retirement. 

Few people could identify an airplane simply by the sound of its engines overhead, but Dad could. His hearing was legendary—an ability that undoubtedly helped him survive a household filled with four children, especially considering that three of them were mischievous boys. 

One of the greatest gifts he gave his children was inviting them into his world. A few times each year, we were allowed to accompany him on the night shift in the control tower. Sitting beside him, watching him calmly direct aircraft through the darkness, felt like witnessing magic. As a child, I remember being filled with pride, convinced my father could speak an entirely different language. 

And when the air traffic slowed, he would turn our attention upward. 

He pointed out constellations, planets, and the endless wonders of the night sky. He never lost his curiosity. He never stopped searching for a hidden star, hoping to discover a new planet, or wondering if perhaps an alien ship might finally reveal itself. Long after most people stopped looking up, Dad was still searching the heavens with the same wonder he carried as a boy. 

That curiosity, patience, and quiet strength defined him. 

He taught us that hard work mattered. That details mattered. That family mattered. He taught us that there is beauty in taking your time and doing things right. He showed us how to love deeply, serve faithfully, and remain curious about the world around us. 

Though our hearts ache in his absence, we take comfort knowing that he is finally home. Somewhere beyond the stars he loved so much, we imagine him reunited with his family, walking Heaven's gardens, and perhaps still keeping an eye on the skies. 

Fair winds and following seas, Dad. Until we meet again. 

*We humbly request that you share pictures of Dad in the comments, share memories and use this space to honor him. Prayers for our Momma are appreciated.

There will be a celebration of life on July 11th, 2026, at 1pm, at his home. Please come in your best Jimmy Buffett attire.

An online guestbook is available at www.compassionatecremationva.com

Compassionate Cremation Services of Ruckersville, VA is honored to serve the Fleming family.