Zachary Fleming

Zachary Fleming, age 68, passed away at home, surrounded by his loving family, at 9:35 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2026. Zachary was the epitome of what it means to fight a good fight. Throughout his 25- year journey with illness, he faced challenges that would have caused many to lose hope. Yet, through his unwavering faith in God and his determination to keep going, Zachary continued to defy the odds. He was a living example that the strength to keep going comes not only from the body but also from the spirit. Born in New Orleans on Sunday, May 18, 1958, Zachary was the beloved son of the late Clarence Fleming Jr. and the late Rose Dell Aubert Fleming. His parents introduced him to Christ at an early age. At just six years old, Zachary accepted Christ and was baptized by the late Reverend Freddie H. Dunn Sr. at New Hope Baptist Church. From the very beginning of his journey, faith was planted in his heart. It would become his anchor through life's changing seasons and the strength he leaned on when the road ahead became difficult. He graduated from John McDonogh Senior High School May 19, 1977. After high school, he continued his education at the University of New Orleans (UNO), where he pursued his dream of becoming a successful attorney and establishing his own law firm. Zachary was an ambitious young man who believed in striving for greatness. His dedication to his education earned him a place on the Dean's List. His determination was evident in everything he did. He would literally study the dictionary to master words and expand his vocabulary. During his time at UNO, he also pledged Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.. He worked for the Mike Dorcey Law Firm, where he was being groomed to become the attorney, he had always aspired to be.

Although his career dreams changed following an accident, Zachary refused to let life's circumstances define him. He continued to find his own way, working as a carpenter and as a vendor's assistant in the French Market. Rain or shine, sleet or snow, sick or well, he believed in working hard and earning his own way. He understood that sometimes the greatest victory is not how quickly you reach the finish line, but having the courage to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Early in his illness, Zachary was approved for disability benefits but chose to refuse them because of how much he valued his independence. He took great pride in being a self-sufficient man and would often remind others, “I ain't no lazy man!” That statement perfectly captured his personality. Zachary was determined, strong willed, and perhaps a little stubborn, but he never lost his desire to stand on his own two feet. Even when the course became difficult, he was determined to keep his own pace and run his own race. Zachary was a man with a big personality who knew how to make his presence felt. Funny, outspoken, competitive, generous, and occasionally stubborn, he was never one to hold back what was on his mind. He especially enjoyed family gatherings and events, where he could always be counted on to captivate everyone with his endless trash talk and playful banter. Whether he was joking, competing, or simply enjoying the company of those he loved, Zachary knew how to make every gathering memorable. He brought his own kind of energy to the race of life, and those who shared the journey with him will forever cherish the laughter, memories, and love he left behind. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved siblings: Charles Aubert (Debra), Diane Collins (Larry), Sterling Fleming (Patrice), Denise Holmes, Clarence Fleming (Catina), Lucritia Powell (Shannon), Daphne Fleming (Ann), Eric Fleming, Wanda Fleming (Rodney), and Yolanda Collins (Edward). He also leaves his godson, Anthony Holmes Jr., along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. Zachary was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Fleming Jr.; his mother, Rose Dell Aubert Fleming; his brother, John Fitzgerald Fleming (Lucy); his maternal grandparents, John and Leola Stovall Aubert; and his paternal grandparents, Reverend Clarence Fleming Sr. and Lucille Fleming.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Service on Friday, November 13, 2026 at New Hope Baptist Church, 1807 John Raphael Jr. Way, beginning 10 am. Rev. Jamaal Weathersby, pastor officiating. Church visitation 9 am until service time. Interment Providence Memorial Park.