Chad Christopher Fleming

Mystic - Chad Christopher Fleming, 54, beloved Husband, Father, Educator, Coach and Friend, of Mystic, passed away unexpectedly, Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, mentorship, and devotion to his family, students, and community.

Born and raised in East Hampton, Chad graduated from East Hampton High School in 1989. He went on to attend Mitchell College (1989–1991) before transferring to the University of Connecticut (1991–1993), where he continued to nurture his love for sports and writing, contributing to The Daily Campus.

Chad was a natural coach, educator, and storyteller. His professional journey began in journalism as a writer and editor at The Regional Standard, before he found his true calling in education. Over the years, he served as a dedicated teacher at Forrest Grove Middle School in Fort Pierce, Fla.; Lebanon Middle School in Lebanon; Fitch Middle School, Westside Middle School, and most recently, Groton Middle School, all in Groton.

His passion for sports was lifelong and infectious. As a coach, Chad inspired countless young athletes, leading teams in boys' basketball and girls' volleyball at Fitch High School and serving as varsity boys' basketball coach at Lyman Memorial High School. He also coached with the Groton Basketball Association (GBA), Groton/Mystic Basketball Club, and CT Elite. His players and fellow coaches will remember him for his integrity, passion, and unwavering support.

Chad was a man of many talents and interests. He was an avid runner, completing several marathons, and enjoyed fishing, playing drums and guitar, and spending time on the tennis and volleyball courts-especially beach volleyball, where his competitive spirit shined.

Above all, Chad cherished his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Jennifer (Lewis) Fleming; and their children, Melanie Fleming and Adam Fleming. He is also survived by his mother, Tessa Fleming Handy; his father-in-law, Ralph Lewis and his wife, Deborah Dombeck; brothers, Brian Fleming (wife Jennifer Desillier-Fleming), Brad Handy, and Mark Fleming (wife Jennifer Fleming); and his niece, Cecilie Fleming. He was preceded in death by his father and stepmother, Stan and Virginia Fleming.

Chad's life was one of commitment-to his family, his students, his teams, and his community. His impact will be felt for generations in the hearts of those he taught, coached, and loved.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, at Mystic Funeral Home located on Route 1 in Mystic. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 3, at St. Mary Church, 69 Groton Long Point Rd., in Groton. Burial will follow at the Elm Grove Cemetery, 197 Greenmanville Ave., Mystic.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to be made to local youth sports organizations or educational programs that reflect Chad's dedication to teaching, coaching, and mentorship.

The family invites you to visit www.mysticfuneralhome.com to leave a note of condolence.