Mary Ella (Gaines) Fleming

With Grace, She Gave. With Love, She Led. With Joy, She Lived.

It is with heartfelt reverence that we announce the passing of Mrs. Mary Ella (Gaines) Fleming, who entered eternal rest on her 88th birthday, February 24, 2026, at her residence. A woman of unwavering faith, style, and strength, Mrs. Fleming was a beloved mother, grandmother, and servant of God. Though she has transitioned, her light will continue to shine in every heart she touched.

Mary Ella (Gaines) Fleming was born on February 24, 1938, in Athens, to the late Gordon and Mary Gaines. As the firstborn of eight children, she carried a spirit of strength and leadership throughout her life. She was preceded in death by six siblings: Walter Gaines, Robert Gaines, Henry Lee Gaines, Cleveland Gaines, Carolyn Gaines, and Ethel Mae Gaines.

She was united in marriage to her beloved husband, the late George C. Fleming, and from this union ten children were born. She was preceded in death by three of her children: Janie Lee Cooper, Michael Allen Fleming, and Virginia Maxine (Fleming) Gresham. She was also preceded in death by her devoted life partner, James Jackson.

Mary Ella was a woman of grace, resilience, and unwavering love. Her kitchen was her ministry—through her homemade cakes and soulful cooking, she brought comfort, joy, and togetherness to family, friends, and community. She created a home filled with warmth, wisdom, and fellowship, leaving lasting memories with every meal she prepared.

Atfer 45 years of dedicated service, she retired from Seaboard Farms. A faithful member of Thankful Grove Baptist Church from an early age, she served in several ministries and was President of the Usher Board until her health declined. Her life reflected her deep love for the Lord and her commitment to serving others.

On Thursday morning, February 24, 2026—her 88th birthday—she peacefully transitioned into eternal rest, completing a life marked by faith, strength, and devotion.

She leaves to cherish her memory five daughters: Mary Joyce Howard (Tommie), Dorothy Bonds (James), Joann Fleming, Brenda Lee Fleming (Bobby), and Belinda Fleming; two sons: George C. Fleming (Lavonne) and Marion Wayne Fleming; her brother, Marcus Gaines (Mary); her aunt, Frances Perry; 26 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren; 15 great-great-grandchildren; two brothers-in-law, Robert Fleming Sr. and Curtis Fleming; one sister-in-law, Lula Fleming; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Her life was a beautiful testimony of love, faith, and enduring strength. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Public viewing will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 1:00 - 5:00pm, located at Mack's Funeral Home - Elberton Chapel. 

Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 3:00pm, located at Thankful Grove Baptist Church - Carlton, GA. 

Interment Service will immediately follow the funeral service located at New Bethleham Baptist Church - Carlton, GA. 

During this time of loss, the Fleming family asks that you remember them in your thoughts and prayers.

Family and friends of the community are welcome to the home of Mrs. Fleming at 2016 Lexington-Carlton Rd. Carlton, GA.

Those wishing to honor Mrs. Fleming’s memory may share condolences with the family by signing the online guestbook, sending flowers, or lighting a memorial candle in her loving remembrance.

Arrangements for Mrs. Mary Ella (Gaines) Fleming have been entrusted to Mack’s Funeral Home, Elberton Chapel.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Ella (Gaines) Fleming, please visit our floral store.