James Fleming

James "Bud" Fleming, age 90, of Joplin, Mo., passed away Wednesday, May 6, 2009, at Joplin Health Care Center following a lengthy illness. Bud was born Oct. 26, 1918, in Joplin, to James and Edna (Grover) Fleming. He has been a lifetime area resident. Bud worked as a Boiler Operator for the Joplin Rendering Plant retiring in 1980. He was also a member of the Lone Elm Pentecostal Church. Bud and his wife, Eunice Clifton Fleming had five children. Surviving include one son, Bud Roland and his wife, Rhonda; two daughters, Edna Hancock and her husband, John and Elizabeth Fleming; son-in-law, Wesley Pickens, all of Joplin; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Edna Fleming; his wife, Eunice Fleming; one son, Bud Fleming Jr.; one daughter, Mary Pickens; two brothers; and four sisters. Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Fairview Cemetery. Rev. J.C. Walker will officiate. The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Friday at the mortuary. Memorial contributions can be made to the Lone Elm Pentecostal Church in care of the mortuary. Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary and Chapel. Online condolences may be made at masonwoodard.com