Jonathan Wight Fleming

1934 - 2024

Jonathan (Jon) Wight Fleming, 90, passed away peacefully at home on November 13, 2024. Jon dedicated much of his life and career to advocating for civil rights and democratic principles. He was a kind, gentle, and intelligent soul who lived by his values and inspired many to do the same.

Jon was born in 1934 in Bloomington, IL to Rudd and Polly Fleming, and grew up in the Washington, DC area. He attended Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School, where he met the love of his life, Cris, whom he married in 1955. Jon went on to graduate from Yale University, where he was a star member of the swim team.

While serving in the U.S. Army at Fort MacPherson, GA, from 1957 to 1959, Jon witnessed the injustices of racism and segregation, inspiring him to pursue a career in civil rights. After a short but influential period working as a journalist at the Bennington Banner in Vermont, he obtained a law degree from Columbia University in 1964.The three years Jon and Cris lived in public housing in Harlem during law school strongly influenced the rest of their lives. In 1964, Jon joined the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, where he helped craft and pass the pivotal Voting Rights Act of 1965. He later worked for Senator Alan Cranston, contributing to significant legislative efforts.

An exercise enthusiast, Jon biked 10 miles each way to work and was a lifelong swimmer. He loved music and dancing, and was a skilled woodwind musician. He was often seen with his nose buried deep in the newspaper or a book, and was sought out for his near-encyclopedic knowledge of American history and politics. Jon was also known for his laughter, wit and storytelling. Jon and Cris's home on Shepherd Street in Chevy Chase, MD, was known for its warmth, lively gatherings, and open hospitality.

In retirement, Jon remained active, volunteering as a tutor, remaining deeply involved in the Democratic party, hiking, biking, and cherishing time with his grandchildren, who called him "Papa." After 54 years in Chevy Chase, he and Cris moved to Collington, where Jon formed deep friendships, enjoyed walks on the trails, and relished singing in the Ivy Room over a glass of wine.

Jon was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Cristol Fleming. He is survived by his brother, Bill; sisters, Mary Sheh and Joan de Vrieze; his children, David Fleming (Joanne), Molly Eldridge (Dana), and Peter Fleming(Diane); seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and many extended family members.

Jon's legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to justice will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of Jon's life will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Collington. Donations in his memory may be made to the Scholarship Fund at the Collington Foundation, 10450 Lottsford Rd., Mitchellville, MD 20721.