Joseph R. Fleming, 79, formerly of Jefferson, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 1, 2017 at UMass Memorial – University Campus. Born and raised in Worcester, Joe was the son of the late Jeremiah and Irene (Derosier) Fleming and a graduate of Commerce High School.

On September 3, 1962, Joe married the love of his life, Valerie Nixon, at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Worcester. They bought a two family home in the Greendale section of Worcester where they lived until moving to Holden in 1971. Joe began his career as a stock boy at Wonder Markets, which later became Big D Supermarkets, and worked over 35 years reaching the position of Vice President of Merchandising. He later worked several years for Seder Foods Corp. in Palmer as their Director of Advertising and Purchasing. He proudly served seven years with the Massachusetts National Guard.

After retiring at the age of 71, Joe enjoyed well deserved time-off and joined the YMCA and the St. Mary’s Church Knights of Columbus in Jefferson where he made many new friends. He loved just being at home spending time with his family and pets. One of Joe’s favorite past times was working in his yard at home and enjoying the simple pleasures it offered. He enjoyed being a part of the Angell Brook community and socializing with the “Garage Gang”. Joe was a kind soul and his life was centered on family and faith. He was a devote member of St. Mary’s Church in Jefferson.

Joe will be affectionately missed and remembered by his wife of 54 years, Valerie A. (Nixon) Fleming; his two daughters, Kathleen A. Fleming and Kara A. Fleming and her fiancé, Todd Dufault, all of Worcester.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Joe’s family from 4 to 6 pm on Friday, January 6, at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am on Saturday, January 7, at St. Mary’s Church, 114 Princeton St., Jefferson. Interment will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joe’s name to St. Mary’s Church, P.O. Box 2200, Jefferson, MA 01522; or to the St. Mary’s Knights of Columbus Council #14298, P.O. Box 2200, Jefferson.