Obituaries

Romaine E. Fleming

2/4/1932 - 2/3/2021

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Obituary For Romaine E. Fleming

Romaine E. Fleming Feb. 4, 1932-Feb. 3, 2021

Romaine E. Fleming, 88, of 2024 13th Avenue, Altoona, PA, transitioned on Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at her residence after a lengthy illness. She was born on February 4, 1932 in Johnstown, PA, the daughter of the late Lewis and Elizabeth (Hemphill) Richardson. Romaine “aka” Dolly, was a light to many, a great mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. There are no words to express how much she was loved or how much she will be missed. Romaine was married to Leslie C. Fleming (deceased) and was mother to 10 children. Anthony (Denise) Stewart, Leslie (Jocelyn) Fleming, David Fleming (deceased), Scott H. Fleming, Forrest R. Fleming, Spring Fleming (deceased), Stacey E. Fleming, Melody Fleming (deceased), Diane Bohmer and Todd S. Fleming. She had 23 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Predeceased by three brothers, Louis, Eugene and Robert, she is survived by two sisters, Judith Henry and Sharon (David) Lucas. Romaine had a true and dedicated commitment to the local community, which was realized in her 40 years of service to the Blair County Head Start Program. In 1968, she joined Head Start as a volunteer and soon became a valued staff member who served in numerous capacities. Her passion for families made her a standout not only in her community, but across the country, in her service to the Parent Involvement and Social Services component of Head Start. In May of 2008, Blair Head Start bid farewell to Romaine when she retired after 40 years of service. In her honor, the Child Advocates Board of Directors established an endowment fund to provide opportunities to families by providing support to parents or past Head Start children who are furthering their education or seeking job training. The endowment fund reflected the vision that Romaine created through her work at Head Start, supporting and nurturing families to help them grow in all areas of life. Romaine was a member of First Jaggard Methodist Church and was active in her church as long as she was able. A private service will be held for immediate family. A memorial service will be planned for a at a later time when we can all gather safely. The family requests that donations be made to Blair County Headstart, 319 Sycamore St., Altoona, Pa., 16602, in memory of Romaine. Arrangements are provided by The Stevens Mortuary, 1421 8th Ave., Altoona, Pa. 16602. Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.

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Condolences

  • 07/09/2021

    Lottie Webster

    Romaine will always hold a special place in my heart! I met her while my son was in Head Start. Her love and kindness helped me through a very difficult time in my life. She was a shining light in a dark world!

  • 02/17/2021

    Patty Ryan

    Sending prayers and sincere condolences to Romaine's family. I had the honor of being under her tutelage when my oldest son was in Head Start. she had a way of finding a person's strength and helping them come out of their shell. She left a lasting impression on me. I have thought of her fondly over the years and wondered how she was doing and where she was. I was so sorry to see that she had passed away. My God be with the family as you adjust to her passing. God Bless - Patty Ryan

  • 02/06/2021

    Tom Marlett

    I only met her one time, and she seemed like she was a lovely lady. My sincere condolences to the entire family, and especially to my friend Anthony. Tom Marlett and Ruth Riley

  • 02/05/2021

    Erica Peterson

    To all of Romaine's family and to all who knew and loved her, my deepest condolences. I'm so saddened to hear of her passing. Romaine made such a huge impact in my life and career at Head Start. She was my very first boss at my very first job at Head Start. She had an unbelievable way of recognizing people's strengths and giving them the push they needed to succeed. I wouldn't still be here, doing what I do, without Romaine's encouragement, recognition of my abilities, and her push to reach outside of my comfort zone. For this, I will be forever grateful. I am touched by the number of similar stories I've heard over the years, and from those of us still here at Head Start, of how Romaine's influence and encouragement brought them to where they are today. I will never forget her passion, her sass, and her humor. I have too many funny stories to share about working for and with Romaine. Thoughts and prayers to her family during this difficult time facing such a tremendous loss. May you find comfort and peace through the stories of Romaine's legacy that she's left behind. Much love. Erica Peterson

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